Dance performance brings Joy to Pilgrims Hospices patients
On 16 July 2025, Pilgrims Hospices patients, carers and staff enjoyed a dance performance titled Joy by Doorstep Duets, a project created in 2021 by New Adventures and Farnham Maltings as a response to social isolation.
Doorstep Duets first performed at Pilgrims in August 2024, and their return was warmly welcomed by all.
The event was facilitated by the Marlowe Theatre and took place at the Canterbury hospice. Patients also performed their own creative work on the day, and a buffet lunch was lovingly prepared by the catering team.
Afterwards, patients shared their reflections and wrote poems on what joy means to them:
Doorstep Duets offers free opportunities for local communities to enjoy world-class dance performances on their street, in their park, or through local community organisations. The Marlowe Theatre is a partner to New Adventures and supports them to perform in local venues. Laura Owen, Community Co-ordinator at the Marlowe, contacted Pilgrims to ask if they would like to host a performance.
Justine Robinson, Therapy and Wellbeing Services Manager, said:
“We jumped at the chance to bring this exciting opportunity to our patients and carers. We’re building an enriching relationship with the Marlowe, and we’re thrilled to be able to host this exciting project.
“Events like this give our patients and carers a chance to experience world-class dance in the supportive atmosphere of the hospice.
“This year, we took the opportunity to have a whole wellbeing day, with patients performing in the afternoon. This included a poem written on the theme ‘joy’ by a group of patients who attend the Therapy Centre.
“Art and creativity can unite our patients and carers and give them a way to express what they might not be able to say in words. It builds wonderful memories, and gives people a chance to step outside of their day to day lives.”
Patients and staff shared what the event meant to them:
“I really enjoyed it, the day was very uplifting.”
– Jeff
“A great celebration of what joy means to us. The dancers were beautifully expressive and the poetry readings a real treat!”
– Jane Stanley, Wellbeing Practitioner
“It was enjoyable, entertaining, and a nice way of getting people together. The dance troupe were friendly and accommodating and I appreciate that they are keeping theatre alive and accessible to all.”
– Sue
“I absolutely loved it, it was fantastic!”
– Marina
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
