Watermill Theatre has confirmed it will offer its first Dementia Friendly performance as part of this year’s summer production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The performance will take place on Thursday 16 July at 2.30pm.
The initiative aims to create a welcoming and supportive environment for people living with dementia and those who support them. The theatre will offer pre‑show information to help prepare audiences for their visit, along with Dementia Friendly staff on hand before, during and after the performance.
Low‑level lighting will be used throughout. Quiet spaces and a designated chill‑out area will be available, and audience members will be free to move around, make noise, and enjoy the show in their own way.
The dementia friendly performance sits alongside Watermill Theatre’s broader programme of accessible performances, which includes BSL interpreted and integrated shows, closed‑captioned performances, audio‑described and Touch Tour options, as well as relaxed performances. The theatre also offers familiarisation visits for audiences who may benefit from exploring the space when it is less busy.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang runs from Tuesday 26 May to Sunday 13 September, with a national press night on Thursday 4 June.
Executive Director Claire Murray said, “It’s central to our ethos to welcome everyone to the Watermill and we’re delighted that for the first time this will expand to offering a Dementia Friendly performance on this year’s summer musical. Our team are working with partners all over West Berkshire to reach people living with dementia and we’re looking forward to some group singing workshops, inspired by the much-loved music in the show. We look forward to welcoming the groups to the Watermill’s performance of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang on Thursday 16 July.”
With music and lyrics by Richard M Sherman and Robert B Sherman, and adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will be directed by Paul Hart. The production will feature Watermill’s signature storytelling and actor‑musicianship, with classic songs performed live, including “Truly Scrumptious”, “Hushabye Mountain” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
