Doorstep Duets returns to Pilgrims Hospices
Doorstep Duets, a project created by New Adventures and Farnham Maltings as a response to social isolation, returned to Pilgrims Hospices for a third time in July 2026.
These performances bring joy to patients, carers and staff; with audience participation and reflection encouraged, they offer an opportunity for creativity and imagination to thrive.
This year’s performance, The Bench, created by choreographer Glenn Graham, and performed by dancers of Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, tells the story of three people whose lives overlap in unexpected ways. It’s a poetic and moving exploration of memory, connection, and the quiet moments that shape us.
The park bench brings together characters from vastly different time periods. As they explore the possessions they carry with them, objects they hold dear, they find new connection and support in this chance encounter.
Elizabeth Hollywood, Wellbeing Practitioner, said:
“Patients and carers really enjoyed the dance performance, and the buffet supplied by our hospice catering team added to a very special day. The dancers spent time talking to everyone afterwards, and were thanked by staff and patients for a brilliant performance.”
Paul Mount, a patient, added: “The dancers were good and did very well; I loved it.”
After the performance, the audience was encouraged to talk about what they’d seen or take some time to quietly think about it on their own, reflecting on how the story might mean something different to them than it does to other people.
You can keep up to date with New Adventures’ work on social media:
- Instagram: @mbnewadventures
- Facebook: @MBNewAdventures
- LinkedIn: @mbnewadventures
For more information on Pilgrims Hospices’ Wellbeing Programme:
- Visit pilgrimshospices.org/wellbeing
- Email [email protected]
- Call the Pilgrims Hospices Advice Line on 01233 504 133
