Written and directed by visiting scholar Jeffrey Steiger and produced by SMHS faculty Charles Samenow, MD, MPH, “TANGLES,” is a dynamic musical play and a multidisciplinary educational and outreach initiative that uniquely fuses traditional theatrical storytelling with research. The production engages healthcare providers, patients, families, and caregivers in dialogue, education, and healing related to the impact of neurocognitive disorders.
The story focuses around Gwendolyn Taylor, who has been an inspiration and loving presence in the life of her sixteen-year-old granddaughter, Tyler. But, as her grandmother succumbs to Alzheimer’s, Tyler’s growing sense of isolation looms larger. The past and present intermingle in this entertaining musical theater production that explores aging, family, and the challenges faced by both patients and health professionals.
“TANGLES” tells the story of a family during one pivotal night as they come to terms with their roles as sons, daughters, and siblings living with an aging family member. Through music, media, and a dynamic design, the production shows how memories and the past are interconnected in ways that both fragment and bring together families in the toughest moments.
“TANGLES” is based on medical research, patient narratives and the experience of healthcare professionals. The production is a unique and rich opportunity for health professionals, families, caregivers, and community members to identify the challenges associated with caring for families and their loved ones in context of the healthcare system.
Saturday, August 12th at 7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:00 p.m.)
Harris Theatre at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts
DETAILS: The production will be held at the Harris Theater at George Mason University at 7:00 pm. Doors will open at 6:00, and a discussion will follow from 8:00 to 8:30 pm.
QUESTIONS? Please contact Cathy Tompkins at ctompkin@gmu.edu or 703-993-2838.
* This is not an AARP event. Any information you provide to the host organization will be governed by their privacy policy.
