CCI students bring contemporary ageing to the stage 

After months of rehearsals, the group of drama students from the CCI (Community Centre for the Elderly) performed the play “Diário da Pessoa Idosa” at the Brazilian-British Centre theatre on 23 November. And they received a standing ovation!

The production brought to the stage not the past, but the power of the ‘now’ in the lives of older people. Through stories and performances based on real-life experiences, the play deconstructed the image of old age associated with frailty and incapacity, affirming with strength and sensitivity that growing old means remaining active, creative and present.

With humour, criticism and affection, our artists demanded space, respect and visibility through art. And it was a huge success! The show, written and directed by CCI theatre lecturer Elton Victor, invited the audience to re-examine their perceptions and recognise the diversity, autonomy and richness of experiences that characterise contemporary old age.

A dance performance provided a wonderful start to the afternoon dedicated to showcasing our pupils’ talents to the public, organised by the rhythm teacher, Karina Matos. See below for some photos of the performance.