Residents of a care home in Winchester and their families were treated to a live outdoor performance of Romeo and Juliet.
The show was staged in the grounds of The Dower House in Headbourne Worthy, and brought Shakespeare to life for an audience of residents, their families, and members of the wider community.
The performance was delivered by The Open Bar Theatre and The Dot Collective as part of a summer tour across the South of England, celebrating a decade of accessible outdoor theatre.
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Chris Golding, chief operating officer at The Dower House, said: "Whilst some residents still enjoy trips to the theatre, others are no longer able to attend performances in the traditional way, so it is a real pleasure to bring the theatre to them.
"The cast truly embraced the spirit of the day – Romeo and Juliet even sang a duet for one of our residents in their room, creating a very special moment that will be remembered for a long time."
The production encouraged full audience participation, with both residents and staff invited to dance, sing, and join in the fun.
Christine Farmery, activities co-ordinator at The Dower House, said: "The cast were absolutely wonderful.
"Seeing our residents and staff encouraged to get up, dance and become part of the production was fabulous.
"The two residents who received personal visits from the cast in their rooms were especially touched by the experience. It brought such joy to everyone involved."
The event supported The Dower House’s mission to offer residents meaningful engagement and access to culture and the arts without needing to leave their home.
The care home is set within five acres of landscaped gardens and provides both residential and nursing care.
The Dot Collective, one of the theatre companies involved, is a registered charity and professional company focused on creating accessible, sensory-led theatre experiences.
It was founded in 2016 by actress Laura Harling, in memory of her grandmother, Dot.
The Open Bar Theatre, also established in 2016, was created by Nicky Diss and Vicky Gaskin to bring Shakespearean performances to Fuller’s pub gardens.
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