Forties Theme Party at Woodbank Methodist Care Home
The mood was set at the beginning of the week with a World War Two display lent by The Surrey History Centre. The residents were encouraged to talk about their experiences and memories at such a dramatic time in their lives. Relatives provided photos of their parents: some in their actual weddings clothes.
Hats were made in readiness for the party. Videos of the 40s were shown and music of the period played. On the afternoon of Saturday May 12th staff transformed the dining room into a replica of a end of war street party. Flags and banners were everywhere and ration book recipes were displayed on the walls.
Everyone assembled and relatives, residents and visitors were ready. Many were dressed in the clothes of the period, and one wore his medals. They were spared 'spam sandwiches' but a special wartime meal was served.
The party really got underway when Daphne Lander and her musician friends began the entertainment. Glen Miller music put everyone 'In the Mood.'This, followed by songs of the period, revived memories. Everyone moved into an already crowded lounge for the next part of the evening. Daphne and her friends encouraged ever/one to join in the singing. Forgotten words were remembered and one of the residents was persuaded to come out to lead the singing of "'We'll meet again'.
Outside in the conservatory the Woodbank staff and volunteers were getting ready for The Fashion Show'. Willing helpers managed to make sense out of the laughter and chaos backstage, photos were taken to send to their mums and everyone was ready, (more or less!)
Events covering the 40s were presented in a series of unrehearsed scenes. The residents recognised the staff dressed in army and naval uniform as they went off to war. The women took over and two of the relatives dressed as 'land girls' complete with a bucket of potatoes and a pitchfork were followed by shoppers in utility clothes and turbans. Children with small suitcases, gasmasks and luggage labels were evacuated.
One of the band was co-opted at the last minute to wear the Yank's uniform( as it wouldn't fit anyone else) He entered into the mood with an impromptu account of how they had come over to help 'HI old England' and ended up teaching two of the girls how to jitterbug! The men returned from the war to be greeted with cheers from everyone and more hugs and kisses from the families.
Later, after more quick changes, the postwar era was remembered. The 'New Look' model was followed by the staff looking wonderful in beautiful evening dresses and fur coats. The grand finale was the entrance of one of the staff wearing an original 40s wedding dress, complete with veil and a bouquet of the same lilies copied from the original photo.
No-one wanted the party to stop. Residents recognised clothes and uniforms they had worn. Everyone had something to say and memories to share. This was an outstanding effort from the wonderful staff at Woodbank and we thank them and all the friends and families who joined in to make it such a happy event.
Dorothy Mitchell