Reminiscence is a key factor in my work with seniors. Over the years I have had the pleasure of learning about the work of Dr. Trudy Pauluth-Penner and others in the field of reminiscence theatre. I became involved in the "Remembering Our Canada" project as a community artist along with a large group of students, artists, actors and elders. It was a deeply inspiring experience, reminding me of how very important it is to listen to one and other's stories. Just think of a time when someone told you a story that inspired you and continues to do so. These shared moments can be extremely potent and often have the side-effect of the "feel-goods" for all involved.
HOW THE PROJECT CAME TOGETHER
On a series of autumn and winter eves in Oak Bay, Victoria students of Oak Bay High School, the University of Victoria Applied Theatre Program, community artists and residents at Oak Bay Lodge, a Seniors residence, came together to exchange and create stories about Canada and life. The diversity in age and cultural backgrounds was exciting and inspiring, and the theatre and storytelling elements to the "Memory Cafe" evenings were lively. Dr. Trudy Paulth-Penner http://www.trudypauluthpenner.com had organized "Memory Cafe" at Oak Bay Lodge in previous years and this continued and expanded program was now going to inspire a theatre piece, to be devised in a collaborative way.
The performance took place in the Dave Dunnet Theatre with residents of Oak Bay Lodge as guests of honor as well as general public. Videographer Kirk Shwartz filmed the performance and interviewed some of the students involved about what their experiences were in taking part in an inter-generational project.
REMEMBERING OUR CANADA BOOK
To highlight and honor the various parts of the project and the many contributions of participants I was invited to edit a limited edition book as a legacy piece. Putting together the book was a joy. I love curating pieces that honor the hearts and beauty of people, and capture in some way the power of sharing, the true inspiration that sharing of ourselves sparks. Remembering Our Canada was a treasure trove of story and moments of connection and wonder. One book cannot possibly capture the many parts that made the whole, but to have something to remember the experiences by is wonderful.
I was still editing the book on a flight across the Ocean to see my Grandfather, so inspired by all of the stories shared, and longing to have an experience like that with my own grandfather. It was a profound experience for each of us, and he passed away shortly thereafter, leaving me with many stories, the wise advice "Just do what you love", and a very special rock....but that is a tale for another time.
