Setting the Scene

Showcasing moments from a multi-arts programme for people living with dementia and their caregivers.

This exhibition displays moments captured during ‘Setting the Scene’ – a unique multi-arts programme that was developed and based at Theatre by the Lake from 2014 to 2020. Sessions ran for 40 weeks every year and included music, dance, visual art, storytelling, drama, comedy and games.

Between 2017 and 2021, Theatre by the Lake partnered with Lancaster University to conduct research on the well-being benefits of Setting the Scene, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, and conducted by Dr Meghánn Catherine Ward (or known as ‘Meg’ at the sessions). The photographs and quotes on these walls were recorded and curated by Meg, and they aim to present glimpses of in-the-moment experiences, words, atmospheres and connections shared between the members and the facilitators, Jenn Bell (nee Mattinson) and Rachel Agnew.

Whilst Meg is not a professional photographer, she wanted to share standout moments from her research that were captured in scenes and words.

The exhibition is on display from Mon 19 September to Mon 17 October.