Two plays tackling dementia this weekend

This year’s Science in the City focuses on the brain and, as part of its programme, two plays are being presented to the public on the theme of dementia.
Dementia affects 1.5 per cent of the Maltese population, a figure set to triple by 2050. This cruel disease has no cure but there is some evidence to suggest that some medication, as well as mental stimulation and involvement, could slow down the deterioration process.

I Am Still Here is a one-woman show starring Charlotte Grech which sets out to remind us that anyone afflicted with dementia has come through a journey, lived a life full of exciting, joyful and painful moments, developed relationships and experienced billions of thoughts and emotions that have shaped who the person is. That person is still there underneath the struggling, forgetful exterior. The play also brings to the fore the role of carers, often the invisible protagonists, whose life changes dramatically when having to look after someone with dementia.
The piece is devised and directed by Pierre Stafrace, while Kenneth Scicluna provides footage and projections which form an integral part of the set.
Il-Masġar tal-Allat Siekta (The Forest of Silent Gods) is...