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Dementia Friendly Films & Performances

What makes a film showing or a performance Dementia Friendly?

Dementia Friendly films & performances provide an adapted environment that is comfortable for people living with Dementia. The lights are kept on at a low level, there will be a comfort break at an appropriate pause point in the middle of the performance (an interval) or the film will be paused (where possible), and audience members can move around or leave the studio as required, and sing along to the familiar songs.

We adapt the seating in the studio to provide more seats with step-free access, but please book early if this is essential to your visit.

Noise and movement

The attitude to noise and movement is relaxed, and we ask anyone who attends to be supportive of this. Audience members can leave re-enter the cinema as required. We aim to include a comfort break around halfway through, particularly for long films.

Show Experience

We make slight changes to sound and lighting if necessary, and we never have a full black-out in the auditorium. We have a hearing loop which offers amplification and audio description of films. Start and end times may be slightly delayed due to the nature of the screening.  

Quiet Space

For anyone who needs to leave the film, we have a Quiet Space outside the auditorium in the Green Room café, which can be used throughout the show. You can return to the show when you are ready and are welcome to leave and return whenever you like.

Staffing 

All staff on duty are Dementia Friends and so understand what we can do to help our audiences live well with Dementia. We will have extra staff and volunteers on hand to help you find your way or answer any questions.

Around The Building

Every door will have clear and simple signage to help you find your way to the cinema, café, toilets and box office.  

Please speak to the Duty Manager (they will be wearing a pink shirt with black accents to identify themselves) if you require any additional assistance prior to the performance.

“In life you need to feel safe, warm and be happy. My wife and I really felt this when we visited Lichfield Garrick to watch Calamity Jane. Thank you for a special afternoon.” - Dementia Friendly Screening Audience Member.

Funded by The McLay Dementia Trust