By Mary O'Hara, The Guardian

United Kingdom

November 8, 2006
 

You founded the charity Age Exchange Theatre 23 years ago. Do you think you were ahead of your time by focusing on the ageing population?

Very much so. Also, I was fortunate enough to witness a group of older people exchanging their stories and I loved what they had to say so much that I thought it would make excellent theatre.

How did you initially develop the concept of Reminiscence Theatre?

Initially, I did it with young people acting out stories. I got a grant (from the then Greater London Council) and the stories were performed in sheltered housing, community centres and in theatres. Eventually, it became older people acting out their own stories and they really enjoyed doing it.

How has it helped older people?

A lot of them didn't have people they could tell their stories to. It has become a way of making friends and it can be therapeutic. We have also worked with ethnic minority elders. It is fascinating, and they get a lot from it.

Are you surprised at how successful your initiatives have been?

I really thought at the beginning that I would be doing this for one year, but I just kept finding ways that it helped. We have recently had success with people with dementia. There is evidence that working with memories can make a difference.

What prompted you to write a book?

I left the organisation and I suppose it was my way of sharing what we had done. I would really like people in the theatre, and anyone who works with older people, to read it.

What have you found most rewarding?

The friendships I have made with the older people, and working in the theatre.

Who is your favourite author?

I'm enjoying George Eliot at the moment and Vikram Seth.

If you could change one thing about the UK what would it be?

I think I'd make it clear that people should listen to older people.

Name a president of Britain?

I'd prefer to hold on to our eccentric and largely powerless monarchy.

 

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