Vaudeville Caravan brings the uplifting power of the circus to delight the residents of nursing care facilities.

THE CIRCUS ARTS HAVE A MAGICAL EFFECT ON AUDIENCES OF ALL AGES

The program was conceived in 2001 as a natural outgrowth of Clown Care and the idea that laughter and delight have an important place in residential nursing care facilities. Recognizing that theater and circus arts have a universal appeal that make them effective in reaching people no matter their age or background, the Vaudeville Caravan approach emphasizes highly interactive, individualized interactions. The performers work in duos representing iconic characters, such as a cowgirl, Elvis, or an opera diva. The artists empower seniors to participate in the action and express positive emotions, often by incorporating a repertoire of recognizable songs from the seniors' era as well as puppetry, dance and magic. This creates a community among residents and staff that counteracts the loneliness and isolation that can be part of life in a nursing home.