Sundowning story told

A drama performance about dementia, which resonated “sorrow, fear, humour and dignity” through the eyes of three generations, has told the story experienced by many Australian families.

Alzheimer’s Australia Victoria recently congratulated contemporary dance company KAGE on the recent success of its Sundowner project in Melbourne and Geelong.

Sundowner ran from 18 to 21 April at the Geelong Performing Arts Centre and opened on 8 May at the Arts Centre Melbourne to a full house.

Sundowning is the name of a behaviour associated with dementia when some people with dementia become particularly restless in the afternoon and early evening.

“We wholeheartedly commend all those involved in the Sundowner project at KAGE,” Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, general manager strategic initiatives, Jack Sach, said.

Both seasons included enlightening and insightful panel discussions after the matinees, where cast, crew and Alzheimer’s Australia Vic carers and counsellors helped audiences to further understand the performance and dementia.

“These discussions provided a rare opportunity for audiences to delve a little further into the creative process as well as increasing their understanding of dementia and the impact it has on, not only the person with dementia but their families and carers,” Mr Sach said.

Sundowner was developed through a series of community forums over 18 months which brought together people with younger onset dementia, carers of those with dementia, and the creative team involved in the development of the show.

“The discussions within these forums were instrumental in creating Sundowner,” Kate Denborough, KAGE’s creative director, said.

“Participants with an experience of dementia, as well as Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, provided vital ideas, feedback and genuine stories that have subsequently shaped the philosophy and direction of the show.

 “Our creative team read widely in the field and consulted with practitioners in different parts of the world.”

Sundowner will undertake a national tour with Performing Lines next year, as part of the Australia Council’s Road Work initiative, and will present 66 performances in 32 venues over 17 weeks between February and June,

For further information about the Sundowner national tour, visit www.kage.com.au.