A teacup, telephone, watch, photographs and books cluster on the right of a cream banner. Text: “Theatre”; “A heartfelt exploration into memories, life and family...”. Smaller handwriting and dial markings are unclear.
Production

Over the Garden Fence

A powerful and uplifting exploration of dementia, identity and the importance of person-centred care. (45 minutes)

Over the Garden Fence follows the story of Annabelle and her grandmother, Dolly, taking audiences on a nostalgic journey through memories of love, laughter and family life. As Dolly’s dementia progresses, the production offers an honest, moving and often humorous portrayal of the realities of living with dementia, exploring its impact on individuals, families and those who provide care and support.

Rooted in lived experience, this engaging two-woman performance encourages audiences to look beyond the diagnosis and recognise the person at the heart of every story. Through humour, compassion and authentic storytelling, Over the Garden Fence creates meaningful opportunities for reflection, discussion and learning.

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Learning

Learning Outcomes

The performance supports audiences to:

  • Develop a deeper understanding of the lived experience of dementia.
  • Promote compassionate, person-centred approaches to care and support.
  • Explore the impact of dementia on individuals, families and carers.
  • Encourage meaningful conversations around dementia, communication and relationships.
  • Challenge stigma and increase empathy through authentic storytelling.

Where It Works

Dementia awareness events and Dementia Action Week · Dementia education and staff training · Health and social care organisations · Universities and healthcare education · Conferences and study days · Community and awareness events · Organisations promoting person-centred care

Interested in booking this production?
We’d love to discuss how Over the Garden Fence can support your organisation, event or training programme. Get in touch to find out more.

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What People Say

“Absolutely beautiful balance of humour and pain, giving a real insight into the issues that dementia brings into the lives of people living with dementia and those close to them. Everyone should see this, especially professionals and clinicians.”

Sarah Ward
NHS England

“A totally absorbing and emotional roller coaster ride on the topic of dementia. I was blown away by the Haylo girls in their representation of Dolly and her advancing dementia.”

Karen Harrison Dening
Director of Admiral Nursing, Dementia UK

“Your play brought the whole dementia world to life and touched hearts, which is needed to drive change.”

Marie Cooper
Hospice UK

“The performance was very powerful and a wonderful insight into the experience of living with dementia from different perspectives.”

Janice Jones
Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Northampton

“I have just had the privilege of seeing your play at Sheffield University. It was the most amazing play I have ever seen.”

Jane McKeown
University of Sheffield

“I saw the play four days ago in Norwich and can’t get it out of my mind. It evoked strong emotions in the audience, from laughter to tears, and even guilt.”

Audience member, Norwich

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