Dying matters - innovating spaces to foster end-of-life discussions with applied theatre.

Abstract

Increasing evidence highlights the benefits and importance of discussing End-of-Life (EoL), yet many people struggle to talk openly about death and dying. This practice-based report details the development of Dying Matters, an applied theatre performance designed to encourage EoL conversations with loved ones. The combination of lived experience monologues and reflection activities appeared to provide an inspiring and supportive experience. The team observed many attendees actively taking moments during the performance to ponder and write their response to EoL preferences prompts. Further application of this work is recommended to engage a broader community and to enhance healthcare professional training.