Stars from the internationally acclaimed musical Wicked treated residents at an Edinburgh care home to an exclusive festive performance.
The West End cast have been performing a string of dates at The Playhouse as part of a UK-wide tour.
Lead star, Brian McCann, who plays the Wizard, decided to contact Bupa’s Victoria Manor Care Home directly to ask if the cast could perform a unique show during an afternoon off from their playhouse run.
The communal area of Bupa’s Victoria Manor Care Home, in Edinburgh’s Albert Street, was turned into a mini theatre to allow residents to be treated to a front row performance of Christmas classics.
The exciting collaboration was carefully planned between Brian, who has a care industry background, and home manager Lindsay McCulloch.
Lindsay said: “Everyone at the home is absolutely blown away that the cast of Wicked came along to perform a collection of Christmas classics.
“It’s certainly not an everyday occurrence, or one we ever expected to happen at Victoria Manor.
“When we told staff, residents and relatives the reaction was unanimous – everyone could not be more excited for the performance.
“It’s a fantastic way to cap off such a great year at the home – and it’s a true testament to the fact that care homes can be lively, social places too.
Brian said: “I had a light bulb moment to get the entire cast to come and visit the home, sing a few Christmas songs and have a chit-chat.
“I care very much about the elderly and I feel that especially at this time of year it’s nice to give back and show some compassion.
“I’ve worked in care homes in a professional capacity before, where I would visit and do an hour of exercise, quizzes and of course – sing.
“I think singing – and the social engagement it brings is a fantastic way to stay mentally and physically active.
“Lindsay has been a true professional to work with and has made the organisation of the performance completely smooth.”
