Updated 5th December 2023: The film can be watched via this link.
Residents from Uniting Annesley in Haberfield and Locke Haven in Petersham near Sydney, recently enjoyed a special ‘Red Carpet’ premiere of a homegrown short film titled “The Out of Tuners,” shedding light on scripted personal stories about ageing and living with mental illness.
Written by Annesley resident Christine Tubbs, the film features 5 residents from each facility portraying different characters to share their experiences with mental health and entering aged care.
Hannah Buckland, Uniting Annesley Case Manager, said the project has inspired and
excited the residents who performed in it.
“The short film was conceived by Christine as a way for the residents to get together to
celebrate Mental Health Month and a wonderful way for everyone to feel included and
recognised for their contributions,” said Ms Buckland.
The project, led by Uniting Exercise Coordinator Portia England, involved auditions, rehearsals, and collaboration between residents from both homes. Many participants experienced performance arts for the first time, adding to the excitement of seeing themselves on the big screen. The initiative also led to the formation of a Mental Health Hub, uniting both homes to share resources, education, and training for staff, fostering engagement and reducing isolation among the vulnerable elderly community members.
