Quay Arts will present a world premiere reading of a new play by Brian Daniels, Don’t Leave Me Now, which explores the impact on family life when a person is diagnosed with this heart-breaking condition.
Inspired by two real stories the play explores the impact of early onset dementia on two very different families: Professor Rachael Dixey, Professor of Health at Leeds Metropolitan University nursed her partner of twenty-five years through dementia for a decade. Cindy Toulman’s husband Chris developed dementia in his 50’s and she visited him every day for the last ten years of his life.
The two stories have been woven together to create a documentary style piece of the impact of the illness has on family life – with great insight, compassion and humour.
The Isle of Wight readings are the inspiration of Lady Sally Grylls who is working tirelessly to raise awareness of dementia and the charity Dementia UK that provides specialist nurses, known as Admiral Nurses to support the whole family affected by dementia.
Lady Sally Grylls commented:
“I was moved, cried and laughed and I feel that the play Don’t Leave Me Now gives an authentic insight into the family dilemma when people are affected by this condition”.
There will be two performances of the reading on Tuesday 18th November, 14:30 and 18:00. Tickets are £5 and on sale now online at quayarts.org or by calling the box office on 01983 822490 and proceeds will be donated to the charity Dementia UK.
Each of the two performances will be followed with a post-show discussion with members of the creative team and a senior representative from the Charity Dementia UK.
PhotogImage: Brian Daniels
