Gravesend Panto visit Day Therapy at ellenor

On Wednesday 28 November, the vibrant cast of ‘Peter Pan’ from The Woodville Theatre in Gravesend brought Christmas cheer and laughter to our adult patients in Day Therapy – they even turned two of our nurses into swashbucklin’ pirates…

At ellenor, we encourage our patients to live their lives to the fullest but sometimes that is not always possible. Day Therapy aims to improve the quality of life for patients in a supportive environment; sessions are held throughout the week and visits can be flexible according to your needs. It also enables you to meet other patients, manage your condition and maintain your independence.

During the festive season, a visit to the pantomime is something that many of us take for granted but at ellenor we understand the positive impact a magical experience such as the pantomime can have on the wellbeing of our patients, which is why opportunities like this are so important.

“They try and make things ascomfortable and jolly as possible. We may have a serious disease but we need to enjoy ourselves, enjoy every day.” – says Jean, Day Therapy patient.

The cast of ‘Peter Pan’ first spent some time greeting the patients before acting out a side-splitting scene from the pantomime. Producer, Tom, then picked two of our nurses to become pirates, Swash and Buckle, and directed them in the scene as they auditioned to join Captain Hook’s crew - much to the amusement of the patients and other members of staff!

“I love supporting ellenor, they do absolutely amazing work and this Christmas as a pantomime company we’re supporting them in both Gravesend and our other venues as well with bucket collections. Coming here today is a massive deal for all of us, we really like to take the time out of rehearsals to come and raise a smile.” – Tom Swift, producer at Wicked Productions.

“I’ve loved being here at ellenor today to share the community spirit, give back to people who otherwise couldn’t get out and come to the theatre - it’s nice to bring the panto to them and give them a bit of Christmas cheer! I thought the Day Therapy nurses were very good as beginners, give them a few more lessons with the magnificent Mrs Smee and I’m sure they’ll be ready for the stage – West End, maybe even Broadway.” – Captain Hook, pirate of the Seven Seas.

'Peter Pan’ will be running from Friday 7 December 2018 to 1 January 2019 at The Woodville Theatre in Gravesend.

By supporting ellenor this Christmas, your kindness will allow us to continue to provide day therapy and wellbeing sessions to patients: https://ellenor.org/christmas-appeal.