Local News

Panto group brings some festive cheer to Andover care home

Residents at Millway House have been experiencing a bit of Christmas magic this month, in the form of a Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime production. 

Community theatre group, Eva Long Productions, visited the Andover care home for a special show designed to provide residents with some entertainment in the lead up to Christmas. 

Two actors performed a festive take on the children’s classic fairy tale, and everyone at Millway got involved, with shouts of ‘Oh yes, it is,’ ‘oh no, it isn’t,’ and ‘it’s behind you,’ heard throughout. 

And, with a Christmas singalong incorporated into the show, residents could really get into the festive spirit. 

Claire Lousteau, Home Manager at Millway House, said the touring theatre group’s visit brought some all-important Christmas magic to the care home, which is situated on the outskirts of Weyhill. 

She said: “I would like to say a big thank you to Eva Long Productions, as well as to our wonderful Activities team for making today’s pantomime happen. Our residents didn’t need to go anywhere – they could just enjoy the show from the comfort of our lounge. 

“It was great to see them all participating – shouting out, and singing and clapping along. It’s visits like this that make Christmas such a magical time.” 

Eva Long Productions specialises in professional community theatre that can be adapted to any space. It prides itself on taking quality live entertainment to community venues at affordable prices, and this year is taking pantomimes to residential homes and care homes across the country. 

Eva Long, Artistic Director and Founder of Eva Long Productions, has worked with her team of directors on one hundred and fifty tours since the company was established in 2005. She ensures every show is audience focused with lots of interaction and participation. 

She said: “The residents at Millway were the perfect panto audience. We always want to create a fun-filled, interactive show and it was brilliant to see everyone getting involved today.” 

Millway House is part of Sears Healthcare and CEO Richard Adams is pleased to hear that the care home has had the chance to enjoy a special Christmas performance of Jack and the Beanstalk. 

He said: “What a great way for our residents to enjoy the lead-up to the festive period. 

“At Millway House, we are a nurse-led care home, so our approach focuses on providing a home-from-home for our residents while we meet their healthcare needs. I’m thrilled to hear how much fun they are having.” 

Situated on the outskirts of Weyhill near Andover, Millway House offers excellent accommodation for nursing, dementia and end of life care. 

For more information, visit www.millwayhouse.co.uk.