Foxtrot has undertaken a range of projects aimed specifically at improving the welfare of, and promoting entertainment for, older people. Projects vary from public consultations on elderly strategies to interactive musical performances, to workshops for care staff.
"Breaking the Silence"
In conjunction with Age Concern Scotland, Foxtrot has developed a forum theatre workshop "Breaking the Silence", which highlights the often hidden abuse of older people in Scotland. The two-hour workshop uses theatrical scenarios to highlight these issues and to invoke discussion between audience members. The workshops are suitable for both staff working with older people and older people themselves. Age Concern Scotland has commissioned three Scottish Tours of the performance since 2002. Contact the Administrator for information on further tours or to commission an individual session for your organisation.
"You Make Me Feel So Young"
Following a series of public consultations, Foxtrot has taken a direct interest in the quality of theatre available to older audiences. In 2001, we toured an interactive musical and theatre performance "You Make Me Feel So Young" to residential homes and day centres throughout Scotland. The performance produced a tremendous response to the mental stimulation provided and the opportunity to participate in the musical numbers.
The UTOPIA Project
In 2003/04, Foxtrot turned its hand to writing for screen through a collaborative project with the Applied Computing Departments at the University of Dundee and Napier University. The project produced a DVD of re-enacted real life stories that reflects to designers/manufacturers the difficulty that older people can have using modern technology such as mobile phones and computer applications.
Full-length Play for Older People
Foxtrot is currently developing a full-length play which will be written in conjunction with and specifically for, an older age audience. The project aims to explore the stereotypes associated with old age and highlight common assumptions and misconceptions through the humour of theatre. The play aims to tour Scotland in May 2006, touring small theatres, village halls and community centres. If you are a convenor of an older people's group, contact us to arrange a performance in your area or for further details.