Solihull care home nonagenarian reveals the secret to a long life is… the theatre!!!

She is 90 years of age and Beatrice Carpenter’s love of theatre is as strong as ever.

The Solihull care home resident has been visiting theatres in the West Midlands since she was a child and used to regularly enjoy trips to shows with her husband, who has since passed away.

The couple especially enjoyed musicals.

Now Beatrice is delighted as she has had the opportunity to rekindle her passion with a fabulous trip to Core Theatre in Solihull to see Malcolm Stent in The Afternoon: a production of music, comedy and variety.

What is so special about live theatre?

Beatrice told BirminghamWorld: “Going to the theatre is one of my favourite things and I think more people should attend the theatre – as long as there is always space for me too!

“The atmosphere of live theatre is what I enjoy most. The magic when those curtains open is unrivalled! And you can tell that the performers really love what they do.

“Even when it is an amateur production, the quality is just as high because the performers really connect with the audience, making you feel as if you’ve known them for years.

“There are so many fantastic productions I’ve seen over the years, but I must say I have always particularly enjoyed musicals. Shows that stand out in my memory are ‘Duet for Two Hands,’ John Mills at Theatre Royale Birmingham and Gilbert and Sullivan shows by the Knowle Operatic Society.

“It was brilliant to be back at the theatre! I had a lovely afternoon and enjoyed both the welcoming atmosphere and the silly and gentle humour of Malcolm Stent.

“I have been to see him before with my husband and even met him before a show once too, so his stories took me back, made me smile and sparked a lot of happy memories of past theatre visits.”

Beatrice’s trip was organised by Ardenlea Court Bupa Care Home in Solihull where she lives.

What did Ardenlea Court Bupa Care Home say about Beatrice’s trip?

Care Home manager Sara King said: “We are so glad that Beatrice had such a wonderful afternoon out at the theatre. As our resident theatre afficionado, we loved seeing Beatrice in her element. Here at Ardenlea Court the team enjoys facilitating bespoke trips and activities for our residents.”

Ardenlea Court Bupa Care Home welcomes residents in need of nursing or residential care, including those requiring support with early and advanced stages of dementia.

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