This event is presented in collaboration with the Orlando Shakespeare Theater. Generously supported by the Pabst Charitable Foundation of the Arts.

To raise awareness of caregiving in its various forms for Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other conditions, Orlando Shakespeare Theater presents a staged reading of Blackberry Winter by Steve Yockey with a post-show talkback with the playwright, caregivers, and performers.

Years of success, meticulous planning, and an eye for detail have in no way prepared Vivienne Avery for her mother’s slide into the grip of dementia. Vivienne recounts memories of her aging mother and the difficult decisions regarding her care. Interwoven with these stories is an evolving, wondrous 21st century Alzheimer’s creation myth — an origin story about a White Egret who tries to protect forest animals as they lose their memories to a blind, oblivious Mole. Blackberry Winter is a moving, occasionally humorous, and deeply human new work.