Christmas arrived early this year at Cedar Health and Wellbeing with our first ever Christmas show, "The Elves and the Shoemakers." What an unforgettable way to start the Christmas season! From rehearsals to the final curtain call, the amazing performance brought together the incredible talents of the whole Cedar Team, including; senior managers, central support team staff, support workers, residents, and their families, creating an afternoon full of magic, laughter, and Christmas spirit.
A Journey of Rehearsals and Dedication
The journey to the show was filled with hours of rehearsals and teamwork. The performers, including Cedar's wonderful residents, gave it their all, bringing their roles to life with their energy, humour and enthusiasm. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of staff worked tirelessly to bring this fairytale to life. Whether stepping into the spotlight or supporting from behind the curtain, every cast member contributed to a heartwarming sense of togetherness.
This wasn’t just a performance - it was a celebration of our residents and Cedar’s inclusive approach, where each person’s individual contribution was embraced, valued and celebrated. The energy and love poured into every aspect of the show created an experience that was truly special for everyone involved.
A Spectacular Performance That Was Truly Magical
When the curtain rose, it was clear that all the hard work had paid off. "The Elves and the Shoemakers" transported the audience into a world where elves work their magic to help a humble shoemaker, and the charm of the story was enhanced by the heartfelt performances of Cedar’s residents. Each resident brought their own unique flair to their character, and their energy lit up the stage.
The audience was captivated from start to finish, laughing and enjoying the show, the costumes, and the infectious joy of the performers. The curtain fell and the room erupted with applause, and the beaming smiles on the faces of everyone involved were a testament to the incredible success of the afternoon. This wasn’t just a play - it was an opportunity for everyone to showcase their talents, feel celebrated, and step into a world where disabilities were no barrier and personal struggles gave way to joy, pride, and achievement.
Heartwarming Feedback: A Truly Feel-Good Afternoon
The afternoon was not only a visual spectacle, but also a deeply emotional one. A representative from Lancashire ICB, who attended the performance, shared their thoughts, saying, “It was a real feel-good afternoon. What was so nice to see was the genuine enjoyment of the service users, and how proud the support workers were of their residents. Not just one or two but all of them! It was obvious that the support workers knew the people they were supporting well and it showed.” This feedback perfectly reflects the inclusive spirit that Cedar nurtures daily, where everyone’s wellbeing is at the heart of everything they do.
A parent of one of the performers also shared their appreciation: “It was a huge success and there was so much love in the room! The residents who were on the stage did so well and they knew they were well received with all the applause. The cakes baked by our daughter were epic. Also, we all thought the food was wonderful. Thank you to all the staff for making it a wonderful show.” This touching feedback highlights just how much effort went into making this event memorable, from the incredible performances to the delicious food that brought people together in celebration.
Gratitude for the Team and the Community
As the final notes of the show echoed, there was a sense of pride in the air, pride in the performers, pride in the hard-working behind-the-scenes crew, and pride in the Cedar Health and Wellbeing family. The show was more than just a Christmas performance; it was a testament to the strength of community, the spirit of inclusivity, and the power of creativity.
A massive thank you goes out to all the performers, support workers, staff members, and anyone who played a part in bringing this event to life. Your enthusiasm, passion, and dedication helped create an unforgettable experience that will surely become a cherished memory for years to come.
At Cedar, it’s moments like these that remind us all of what makes Cedar so special. It’s the sense of belonging, the heartfelt connections, and the unwavering support for one another that makes Cedar Health and Wellbeing a truly magical place to be. Here's to many more festive performances and celebrations in the years ahead! ✨🎄