Maidstone care home resident enjoys VIP trip behind the scenes of local theatre

A local care home resident jumped into the spotlight for an exclusive behind the scenes VIP trip at a local theatre.

When the team at Care UK’s Invicta Court, on Gidd’s Pond Way, learned that theatre lover, Barbara Bingham, 87, wanted to return to the theatre, they were keen to make her wish come true and give her the full VIP experience.

Always passionate about the arts, Barbara volunteered at the Addington Village Hall in the 1970s, where she was responsible for the props used by the local theatre group’s productions. It was a role which suited Barbara as she loved organising things and placing them where they should be. 

To help relive her theatre memories, the team at Invicta Court contacted The Avenue Theatre in Sittingbourne who were more than happy to give Barbara the best seats in the house for a sneak peak of their Oliver production. But the team didn’t stop there – they also arranged for Barbara to head backstage for a behind the scenes tour of the theatre and to meet some of the production’s cast and crew.

Commenting on the day, Barbara said: “I had a great day out and was amazed at the size of the theatre. It was great seeing the talent of the young cast and being backstage – which brought back the excitement I used to feel standing in the wings.”

The visit was part of the home’s Wishing Tree Initiative, which encourages residents to put wishes forward, allowing them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new – from flying a plane to enjoying a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small. 

Sara Barbosa, Home Manager at Invicta Court, said: “We were delighted to be able to take Barbara back to the theatre for an afternoon full of reminiscence. 

“Our Wishing Tree initiative is a great way for residents to share their goals and it’s hugely rewarding to be able to make these a reality. The visit was a complete success, and it was lovely seeing her face light up watching the performance with her friends and family. 

“I would like to thank the team at The Avenue Theatre for making her visit extra special and to the team at Invicta Court for organising it for her – it was fantastic to see Barbara back in the spotlight!”

Invicta Court offers a full range of permanent residential care and short-term respite in luxurious surroundings, including a café, hair and beauty salon, bar and cinema. The highly trained, professional team also delivers specialist dementia care.