Rehearsals are underway for the dance production of ‘If I Only Could’, which proves that artistic freedom knows no age.
Eight Lockyer Valley aged care residents together with four professional dancers will share their stories through contemporary and ballroom dance at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre on October 27 and 29.
Max Oyston, who’s a resident at Laidley Tabeel Aged Care and former radio announcer, says the show is aided by professional dancers, who are just fabulous.
“I mean, the way they handle us – if you’d like to put it that way, was extraordinary,” Mr Oyston says.
“They are just so committed, every one of them, and they helped us out with everything we did and we’re not dancers as you can imagine.
“I mean, I’m 83 so I don’t trip the light fantastic anymore,” he says.
Mr Oyston says that his time as a radio announcer has helped him prepare for the role.
“Well it does, because it gives you confidence to do things, which you might not necessarily do in ordinary circumstances but I enjoyed many years in radio,” he says.
Meanwhile, Lutheran Services Creative Programs Advisor Clare Apelt says that since the production began in 2017 it has helped their residents with mobility issues as well as encourage them to explore their playfulness, joy and love of music.
“After the sessions with dancing, their memories are brought back so people start to talk about their youth or their lives, which is good for their emotions and mental health,” she says
“The more dancing they do the better their physical health as well.
“Many of them are happier and they want to continue the dance forever,” Ms Apelt says.
‘If I Only Could’ is presented by Lutheran Services and QPAC.
For ticket details click the following link https://www.qpac.com.au/the-creatory/news/if-only-i-could/
(Photo: Supplied.)
