About To whom i may concern
To Whom I May Concern: Giving Voice to Those with Progressive Brain Illnesses
To Whom I May Concern is an interactive theater program that aims to give voice to people with progressive brain illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The company was founded on the belief that everyone deserves a chance to express themselves, regardless of their cognitive abilities.
Theater has long been recognized as a powerful tool for self-expression and communication. It allows individuals to explore different perspectives, emotions, and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. For people with progressive brain illnesses, however, traditional theater programs may not be accessible or appropriate.
To Whom I May Concern addresses this gap by creating interactive theater experiences specifically designed for individuals with cognitive impairments. The program uses improvisation techniques and other creative exercises to encourage participants to express themselves in new ways.
One of the key features of To Whom I May Concern is its focus on individuality. Each participant is encouraged to bring their unique perspective and personality into the performance. This not only helps them feel valued but also creates a more engaging experience for the audience.
The program also emphasizes collaboration between participants, caregivers, and professional actors. By working together towards a common goal – creating an original performance – everyone involved can feel a sense of accomplishment and connection.
To Whom I May Concern has received widespread recognition for its innovative approach to supporting people with progressive brain illnesses. In 2019, it was awarded the prestigious Dementia Innovation Award by Alzheimer’s Society UK.
But perhaps even more important than awards are the stories from participants themselves. One woman who took part in To Whom I May Concern described how it helped her reconnect with her husband who had Alzheimer’s disease:
“My husband was always very quiet… But when we did this play together he came alive… He remembered his lines better than me! It brought us closer together.”
Another participant shared how she felt empowered by the experience:
“I felt like I was somebody again… It gave me a sense of purpose.”
To Whom I May Concern is not just a theater program – it’s a community. By giving voice to those with progressive brain illnesses, it helps break down the stigma and isolation that can often accompany these conditions.
If you or someone you know is living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, consider exploring To Whom I May Concern as an option for creative expression and connection.