It is hard to know what to expect from a show about dementia. Many, myself included, have loved ones with the condition. I enter the theatre with no idea what to expect from Taiwan’s Bandone Productions’ Dance With Dementia. The stage is minimal, with an armchair facing towards the back wall. A light hangs from the ceiling to the right, while another light is operated from the front left corner. This minimal staging leaves me looking forward to the many possibilities for what is to come.

The show begins with the rhythmic sounds of high heels as creator and performer Suzanne Huen paces the stage. This simple action is surprisingly enchanting. Huen is well put together and beautifully dressed. Throughout this short opening scene, Huen manages to establish the struggle that is occurring in her character’s mind.

As the show continues, we see the main character’s aspirations and struggles within the tiny room she lives within. This is communicated largely through movement and dance. Though Huen rarely speaks, her movements serve as dialogue, communicating her character’s inner thoughts without saying a word.

As my companion comments later, although at times it is hard to follow the narrative of the show, the fact that Dance With Dementia is clearly such a personal and moving show makes any confusion easier to manage. On some level, it makes sense that we cannot always understand what is going on, and we are fully engaged regardless.

As her condition worsens, Huen’s appearance visibly deteriorates, creating a clear picture of the character’s condition. A particularly moving moment is when Huen bursts into tears, immediately making me want to cry with her.

Huan preforms masterfully. Each movement and from the beginning to the end is entrancing. She communicates each movement with care and reminds me of family members suffering with dementia. It is clear that Huen is performing from her heart and telling a story that is close to her.

The show’s description reveals Huen based the show on her observations of her late mother’s dementia. What truly draws me in is Huen’s face. She is beautifully expressive and it is this that connects the audience to her character’s feelings. She also sings beautifully.

Yu Fang Chuang’s lighting design is a performer in itself. Lights combine with Huen’s movements to communicate what words can’t. Chuang uses colour, shadows and movement of the light itself to communicate mood and the character’s mindset.

Music and sound effects are played when Huen has to exit during transitions. There is always a worry of long transitions with solo shows. However, Huen speaking and singing from a microphone backstage while changing costumes, combined with other sound effects, keeps the atmosphere alive.

Dance With Dementia is a personal story full of heart. Responses to the show will inevitably vary based on individual experience with dementia. Despite that, this masterful performance is certainly a must watch. Bandone Productions have handled a difficult topic with care and love. Huen, Chuang, and producer/stage manager Jason Lee should be extremely proud. I am excited to see how the show develops further and sincerely hope Bandone Productions return to Wellington.

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