Possibly the most relatable moment in this detailed narrative about Natalie Grove’s mother Cynthia’s steady neurological decline thanks to early onset Alzheimer’s was a repeated scream, largely if not entirely directed at the bureaucratic nature of the medical facilities with which she needs to deal with. She can’t get the information she requires, despite having power of attorney for her mother’s affairs, for the most technical of reasons, and suddenly this very American story felt very British. Elsewhere, test results can’t be sent electronically (they can, of course, but her doctor’s surgery insists they can’t).
Grove the younger has her own issues going on – she has a therapist (it’s easy to knock Americans for alleged over-reliance on therapy, but personally I would prefer it to the tendency in Britain to go for prescriptions for pills), and then there are the results of a genetic test to determine the likelihood of developing dementia of some kind herself: I hasten to add she is acutely aware that most instances of dementia are not hereditary. Indeed, she is generally acutely aware, with detailed observations about the care home which her mother is staying in.
It’s a fascinating story, especially for anyone who hasn’t had reason to visit a care home for dementia patients before – there were a variety of characters brought to life in this moderately-paced show. The audience gets to know certain other patients as well as members of staff, including one which Grove is attracted to, a source of amusement at various intervals in the show. There are group activities in the care home happening every day, though it appears patients are welcome to participate in as much or as little as they want. There’s humour to be found in almost anything, and Grove’s ability to not take herself too seriously gives the show a disarming charm about it. A bold and engaging experience.
Review by Chris Omaweng
Following a sold out debut at the Hollywood Fringe in 2024, Natalie Grove brings her autobiographical show about her mother’s early onset dementia to the Edinburgh Fringe for the first time.
The show portrays multiple characters including healthcare workers, other patients and family members as she addresses the difficulties of caring, but also her own mental health difficulties that stem out of the situation.
Directed by Terra Mackintosh
Written and performed by Natalie Grove
Sound design by ALSO
JELLO BRAIN
Greenside @ George Street at the Edinburgh Fringe
1 to 23 August 2025
