Barbara at The Met

Barbara is a cabaret-style show by writer and performer Mark Croasdale. After his grandma Barbara was diagnosed with dementia, Mark decided to encourage more discussion around dementia, creating a show that brings his grandmother’s life and experience of dementia to the stage in a caring and compassionate way. The hour-long performance combines well-known songs rewritten with playful lyrics, chances for audience conversation and a free crumpet for every attendee. Alongside the show, Mark and his team have developed Barbara’s parlour, which involves interacting with everyday people to begin discussions around dementia and working closely with dementia led organisations.