Rob Mitchell is dedicated to reviving the nostalgic memories of the elderly.
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The Sydney-based performer, known as the ‘Memory Man’, has been storytelling in aged care facilities for a decade.
He is now set to bring his production to the Highlands, with shows booked in Moss Vale and Burradoo in October as part of his Country Spring Tour.
Memory Man performs a variety of pantomime-style shows using his “box of tricks” that contains household memorabilia from yesteryear, including vintage food tins, gas lamps and even old meat mincers.
“It basically contains the five senses, which I use to trigger memories with,” said Mr Mitchell.
He also shares the life stories of people he has interviewed, accompanied by music and “reminiscence pantomimes”.
“The music and dance really gets through to people,” he said.
Mr Mitchell said it took the death of his father in 1996 and a near-death experience of his own a few years later for him to abandon his career in finance and seek a new direction.
What he discovered was more in keeping with his “real passions” - life stories and memories.
“I love listening to people’s stories. I tell true life stories that I have heard through my interviewing, and I use objects, and music.”
“It puts smiles on people’s faces. It can be pretty gloomy in there [aged care facilities]. But you turn people around.”