Playful residents at a Dorset dementia care home enjoyed a captivating afternoon of magic, laughter and theatrical fun thanks to a visiting entertainer.
Magician Andrew Scarratt invited his audience at Colten Care’s Fernhill in Longham near Bournemouth to be part of the show rather than simply sit back and watch.
Willing participants held props and took part in tricks themselves, creating plenty of opportunity for laughter and amazement.
To set the scene, team members turned the home’s lounge into a vintage-style theatre and dressed up in colourful waistcoats and bow ties.
Andrew, a member of the Wessex Magical Association who has been named Stage Magician of the Year and Comedy Magician of the Year multiple times, then used his people skills to create an easy-going rapport.
As the show unfolded, it combined comedy, sleight of hand and illusions that left the audience wondering how the tricks were possible.
Home Manager Lorraine Bell said: “It was a joy to see our residents getting so involved. We shared many special moments of surprise and wonder together.
“Shows such as this support our commitment to creating inclusive experiences that bring our residents together and encourage participation.”
June Welford summed up her impressions, saying: “He was a really funny man.”
And fellow resident Vivienne Marlow said: “It was lots of fun.”
Fernhill is one of eight Colten Care homes rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission, the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
