A theatre show to defy ageist assumptions

Ageist advertising and media we see every day reinforce very narrow ideas of life as we get older. The ExEl Theatre Company is here to blow those ideas out of the water by championing creativity, storytelling and expression. We caught up with them to learn more about their stereotype-challenging Action Day theatre show.

The Action Day is a chance for individuals and communities, workplaces, friends and families to learn, take action and help change the way we think about ageing. In 2024 the theme was ‘See and Be Seen’. 

Based in Manchester, the ExEl Theatre Company is a group of over 60's who are graduates of the Royal Exchange Theatre Elders Company. 

The ExEl Theatre Company’s Chair, Paul, explained that the group exists to ‘help older people feel connected, be creative and to challenge the stereotypes of ageing. As older people are often isolated, and sometimes physically and economically disadvantaged, this enables them to become more actively involved in the community. We always perform our own unique, original material.’ 

A stereotype-challenging show 

The Action Day theatre show, ‘Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow’ was made up of short plays, monologues, poems and songs, all created and performed by 23 members of ExEl.

The show told individual, unique stories of growing up and ageing over the past 75 years in Greater Manchester. Paul said that 'the show demonstrated the capabilities, experiences and expertise of the participants. This challenged stereotypical ideas of “old age”, showing that creativity and ageing are not mutually exclusive.’

Through storytelling, the audience was encouraged to review, to reconsider and re-evaluate their own ideas about what older people can contribute to the wider community. This challenged ageism and complimented the Action Day ‘See and Be Seen’ theme. It raised awareness that, in Paul’s words, ‘anyone, at any age, can perform, create and realise potential.’

Paul explained that the show was very positively received by the 60-strong audience: ‘people of all ages expressed surprise that the company was able to put on such an amazing, enjoyable performance.’ 

What’s next? 

Paul said, ‘By its very nature, ExEl challenges societal expectations and will continue to do so. We have a show called “10aCity” which will be performed at The Royal Exchange Theatre on 2 October 2024 as part of its five-day celebration of 10 years of the Elders programme. It will continue positive, vibrant work which is meant to be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone.’