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New play raises awareness of LGBT+ people with dementia

Besi Besemar January 24, 2018

Award winning play The Purple List… a gay dementia venture by Libby Pearson will be performed by Ian Baxter on Thursday, February 15 at the opening of the Rainbow Cafe.

The performance takes place at Brooke Mead, (the new extra care housing accommodation to be opened by Brighton & Hove City Council) in Albion Street, Brighton, from 11am- 2pm .

The play, a 35-minute one-man performance explores the highs and lows of the lives of same sex couple, Sam and Derek, who live with the reality of dementia and memory loss.

The performance will be followed by a Q&A session, and a chance to hear about Brighton & Hove LGBT Switchboards new dementia café, The Rainbow Café for LGBT+ people experiencing dementia.

Daniel Cheesman
Daniel Cheesman

Daniel Cheesman, Switchboard’s CEO, says: “Through the Rainbow Café, we aim to raise awareness of dementia within the LGBT+ communities. Our Older Person’s Project has highlighted the need for this service and we are thankful to the support that we have been given by the Rainbow Fund to get the service up and running.”

“Everyone is welcome to attend the launch event on February 15. Whether you’re interested in attending the group, want to find out more or if you’re interested in volunteering. The play is a powerful portrayal of the impact that dementia can have and in this scenario in a same-sex relationship – I would encourage all to come and see it.”

The Rainbow Cafe has been made possible with an £11,725 grant awarded by the Rainbow Fund.


Event: Launch of Rainbow Cafe and performance of The Purple List by Libby Pearson

Where: Brooke Mead Albion Street, Brighton, BN2 9PY

When: Thursday, February 15

Time: 11am – 2pm

Cost: Free

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