Don’t miss “Unforgettable,” a powerful stage play at Harris-Stowe State University on June 29 that sheds light on Alzheimer’s disease and its impact
Alzheimer’s Association and Gdavis Productions team up for production communicating the importance of early detection, clinical trial participation and the need to reduce health disparities in underserved communities
ST. LOUIS – “Unforgettable,“ a dynamic and emotional stage play that showcases the effects of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, is coming to Harris-Stowe State University on June 29. The play, developed by Gdavis Productions and Films, LLC, and presented by the Alzheimer’s Association, sheds light on the importance of recognizing the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s, early detection and diagnosis of the disease and the importance of underrepresented communities participating in clinical trials.
St. Louis is one of 10 cities hosting productions of “Unforgettable” this year.
Currently there are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, including 120,000 Missouri residents. Older Black Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease as White Americans. Black Americans are also less likely to receive a timely diagnosis, with many receiving a diagnosis much later in the disease, when their medical needs are greater.
“There is a lack of culturally appropriate and tailored programming that resonates with disproportionately affected and underserved audiences as it relates to Alzheimer’s and other dementia care and support,” said Carl V. Hill, Ph.D., M.P.H., chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer, Alzheimer’s Association. “This community theater gives us the opportunity to deliver important disease-related information in a fun and entertaining way. We want audiences to come away with a better understanding of Alzheimer’s, other dementia and the resources and support that are available from the Alzheimer’s Association to help families who are affected.”
Creator Garrett Davis wrote “Unforgettable“ in tribute to his late grandmother, Goodness, whose dementia diagnosis left his family feeling lost. Davis’ experience as a Black male caregiver inspired the story of the Davenport-Rodriguez family, who makes a plan to care for matriarch Mama D after her Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
Since July 2022, “Unforgettable“ has played to capacity audiences in several cities, reaching more than 10,000 individuals, including many personally affected by the disease. The stage play has also allowed the Alzheimer’s Association to engage 150 national and local partners.
“My focus is not just on the incredible performances but also on highlighting the profound impact of our collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Association,” Davis said. “We’re dedicated to addressing health disparities in communities of color, working towards a future where everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the care and support they deserve.”
“Unforgettable” features a cast of characters who were a part of the drama series “Daddy’s Boys,” including Dartez Wright and Kenneth Pierce. “American Idol” finalist Scott Savol, LeJuene Thompson from Donald Lawrence & the Tri-City Singers, and Yessie Rodriguez from the drama series “My Family” are also featured. The “Unforgettable” theme song was written by songwriter and vocalist Blanche McAllister, one of the lead singers from the Grammy award-winning group Donald Lawrence & the Tri-City Singers.
“Reaching and engaging underserved audiences that are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias is a top priority for the Alzheimer’s Association,” Hill said. “Engaging diverse perspectives is critical to achieving health equity — meaning that all communities have a fair and just opportunity for early diagnosis and access to risk reduction and quality care.”
Greater Missouri Alzheimer’s Association staff will be on hand before and after the play to provide information on local support and education services and to answer audience questions.
The play will be preceded by a community concert featuring Adrian Crutchfield, saxophonist and the last horn-man to perform and record with Prince and the New Power Generation. The concert will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, June 28 at Harris-Stowe State University.
For more information about “Unforgettable” and to reserve a free ticket for the performance, visit Unforgettableplay.com.
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