The Window Outside heads for the Shenton

Melbourne independent theatre company Wise Owl Theatre will present a moving tale of love and family next month as part of the 2019 Victorian Seniors Festival.

Supported by Dying With Dignity Victoria, The Window Outside is a powerful narrative which explores one family’s experiences with ageing, illness and end of life care.

Frank – who is bound to a wheelchair after suffering a stroke – cannot speak or care for himself. At the same time, his beloved wife Evelyn is showing early signs of dementia and is at risk of hurting herself and others.

With their eldest daughter Sharon exhausted from acting as her parents’ primary caregiver, younger sister Miranda enjoys a celebrated life as an artist in London.

Producer Liz Connor said The Window Outside is a story about choice, family and the importance of home.

“So many elderly people pass away lonely and isolated in huge constructs called nursing homes, desperate for family, desperate for home.”

The Window Outside questions cultural perspectives, existential suffering and the people who often burden the responsibility.

It also shines a light on the public and political conversations surrounding end of life choices, particularly in relation to voluntary assisted dying laws.

The play will grace audiences at the Northcote Town Hall before it tours Geelong, Moorabbin and Warragul throughout October.

Wise Owl Theatre’s season is proudly supported by Victorian Seniors Festival, Dying with Dignity Victoria, assisted dying advocate Doctor Rodney Syme – who will speak on opening night – and Auspicious Arts Inc.

The Window Outside will be performed at Shenton Performing Arts Centre (corner of Ryrie Street and Garden Street) at various times from October 16-19.

General admission tickets are $35. Concessions enter for $26. For more information, head to wiseowltheatre.com.au.