The Keys are in the Margarine is a unique form of stagecraft. “Verbatim” or “documentary” theatre is real, mesmerising and truthful. It interweaves hilarity with heartbreak to poignant effect, while providing deep insight into what it means to be human.

Dementia and Alzheimers affects many New Zealand families. It’s a condition none of us can ignore. This play is created from interviews with people with direct experience of the disease: caregivers, family members, doctors, and support workers. Their stories communicate the effect dementia has on the lives of people living with the disease and everyone around them.

In performance, the actors re-enact those interviews. With the audio playing in their ears, they relay the original words, and how those words were spoken. Every vocal inflexion, intonation, and hesitation, as well as the physical gestures and facial expressions.

“The extraordinary, intimate experience of verbatim theatre is the perfect vehicle for a discussion of the lives, hopes and fears… …a glimpse into the reality of dementia, with all the humour, bravery and poignancy it entails. The result is a moving and inspiring theatre experience. Highly recommended”. The Star- June 2014, Brenda Harwood