Two ladies, Catharine and Joanne decided they wanted to go to the Grease Sing-A-Long at Milton Keynes Theatre with two staff and when asked to choose the staff, Rachel and Carol were picked.
We discussed the upcoming show several times before the date, as Joanne in particular was getting very excited. We all sang the songs and enthusiastically practiced our actions and moves! The build up to this event was great fun for everyone.
The big night came…
We were given goody bags upon arrival which contained a balloon, a paper tissue, a flag and a party popper. We were all given instructions on how to use these items when specific parts of the film were shown or when we had to sing to certain songs. For example, when Danny is doing the car racing, we had to jump up and down waving our flags. When any sad songs were played we had to wipe our eyes with the tissues. The best bit was when we had to use the brown paper bags and put them on our heads for the song ‘Beauty School Drop-out’.
Through both staff being participative and encouraging and supporting the two ladies to join in and feel valued throughout the whole show, the night was a great success.
It was so rewarding experiencing the ladies enjoyment of this event and reflecting afterwards I realise that it was our use of the facilitation skills that made this experience so successful. We had used careful observation throughout the show, supporting the ladies to use the props or stand up as required but not interfering when they were able to do something for themselves. At times we held hands waving them in the air, but also just to offer a little reassurance. And I know we both demonstrated warmth – it was very evident we got that right by the smiles and laughter that was shared.
This was Catharine and Joanne’s special evening which they had carefully been supported to plan and make all the choices for. They had thoroughly enjoyed doing this.
Great Interactions come in many forms and we had so many before, during and after this super evening.
Carol Davison
Head of Service
Westonia Court