THE Castle Players’ production of Always By Your Side was warmly praised for its moving story of the effects of dementia, at a special performance at The Hub.
The playlet, designed for performances in primary schools and featuring a lifesize child puppet, was enjoyed by invited guests including stakeholders and sponsors.
It was introducted by Dementia Friendly Community Group chairman, Ian Kirkbride and writer-director Laurence Sach, Chairman of The Castle Players. The role of Grandma was played with deft sensitivity by Nic Worsnop, and her grandson was played by the puppet Oscar which was cleverly and convincingly voiced and manipulated by Sue Byrne and Adele Tyler. Peter Cockerill skilfully switched roles to play Grandma’s husband, son and former work colleague.
Heather Armstrong and Anne Platten completed the cast. Simple but effective scenery and stage props complemented the sound effects and empathetic direction.
Just as in the case at schools’ performances, the audience was asked to participate in short, fun workshops at the end of the play. These are designed to reinforce the learning in a lively and interactive way, and were created by former primary headteacher, Susan Kirkbride.
Town mayor, Councillor Rima Chatterjee said: “The town council is proud of such a splendid and unique contribution to the welfare of many of its residents.”
