Intergenerational Theater Group - Western Canada
This community participatory research project from Canada brings together different generations to form a professionally led intergenerational theatre group, including both older members of the community and students.
Anderson et al. (2016 ) describe the Intergenerational Theatre Group Project in their research paper:
“In response to publicity about the benefits of professionally led drama programs (Noice, Noice, Perrig-Chiello, & Perrig, 1999), the seniors’ association in a western Canadian city approached a university drama professor about initiating an older adult drama program. In 2001, the professionally led older adults’ drama performance group began. Six to 10 participants regularly performed Shakespeare- or fairy tale–inspired vignettes featuring well-known characters as older adults in settings such as a retirement residence. In 2006, university students joined the older adults. Older adults and university students participate in weekly 'rehearsals' that begin with theatre games, singing, and improv to create a playful atmosphere. Then, participants work together to develop ensemble-created plays. They reminisce about objects brought to the group by staff and tell personal narratives. Vignettes from a number of stories are worked into a meaningful storyline. The group hones the plays in rehearsals and 15 to 20 performances a year."
The researchers conclude: “Participating in this intergenerational theatre group reduced ageism and improved intergenerational relationships. It increased older adults’ and university students’ well-being by building social networks, confidence, and self-esteem and developed a sense of social justice, empathy, and support for others.” (ibid)
Dive deeper into the case of the Intergenerational Theater Group by reading the study by Andersion et al. (2016)
Reference:
Anderson, Sharon et al. 2016. “Translating knowledge: promoting health through intergenerational community arts programming.” Health Promot Pract 18, no. 1: 15–25. https://doi.org/10.1177/1524839915625037.