WEST Yorkshire Playhouse is staging its second dementia-friendly performance with a matinee of Maxine Peake’s play Beryl on Tuesday at 2pm.

This follows the success of the Leeds theatre’s initiative in staging the first such performance of its Christmas musical, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, last December when more than 400 people attended.

Beryl recounts Yorkshire cyclist Beryl Burton’s outstanding sporting achievements. The Playhouse’s community development manager, Nicky Taylor, says the story offers rich material for connecting with audience members.

“Inspired by Beryl’s 30-year career, we can evoke people’s own memories of sport,” she explains. “We have been visiting community groups, care homes and events with reminiscence objects relating to cycling history, and encouraging people to share their stories of cycling and sport.”

The Playhouse production has been adapted especially for the dementia-friendly performance with Nicky and her team working closely with people living with dementia, consulting them on the changes needed to the show and to the theatre’s front-of-house environment.

“We consider everything from sound and lighting cues, stage action and seating plans to signage and refreshment service,” she said.

“For some people, simply knowing that theatre staff and volunteers have an understanding of how the condition might affect people is a major factor, and can impact hugely on confidence. We are proud that over 120 West Yorkshire Playhouse staff and volunteers are now Dementia Friends and have turned their understanding of dementia into action.”

There is extra flexibility when booking seats for the performance. If someone needs a little extra personal space, they can request the seat next to them remains unsold. A quiet room outside the auditorium is available for those who feel they need some time away from the crowd.

“We hope that by making some sensitive adaptations to the theatre experience, we can welcome people living with dementia back to the Playhouse or encourage them to try visiting the theatre for the first time,” said Nicky.

Since 2010, West Yorkshire Playhouse has offered creative activities for people living with dementia and their partners or carers, enabling people to explore and develop their talents and be part of a friendly group.

To find out more about the Playhouse's dementia-friendly performances or its creative work with people living with dementia, you can contact Nicky Taylor on 0113 213 7296 or by emailing nicky.taylor@wyp.org.uk  Tickets for Beryl can be booked on 0113 213 7700 or by popping into the theatre and speaking to staff.