On Monday, September 16 at 7:30pm, award-winning local playwright Duane Kelly will discuss his newest play, Abacus, which tells the story of a futuristic caregiving experience. Kelly is joined by Katie Zeitler, Program Manager for Dementia Friends at the University of Washington Memory and Brain Wellness Center; he is also joined by Rebecca Crichton, Executive Director of the Northwest Center for Creative Aging.
The play tells the story of a synthetic replicant of a human experiencing unexpected concerns as she cares for a man who suffers the indignities of old age and dementia. Duane will discuss the two years he spent developing the play, including working with a neuroscientist at the Paul Allen Brain Institute and with a renowned philosopher whose work includes the nature of consciousness.
MORE INFORMATION:
Duane Kelly is an award-winning Seattle-based author of eleven full-length plays. His plays were produced at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2022 and 2023. His newest play Abacus premieres in Seattle Sept. 2024. Also in September, his play Patrimony opens at American Theatre Company in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Katie Zeitler is the Program Manager for Dementia Friends Washington at the University of Washington Memory and Brain Wellness Center. She has worked with people living with dementia and their caregivers and care partners in different capacities since 2013 and has a varied background in direct patient care, public health, and non-profit work. Katie also currently serves on the Dementia Action Collaborative’s Public Awareness and Community Readiness subcommittee. Her professional interests align with the goals of Dementia Friends which include spreading awareness about dementia, reducing the surrounding stigma, and creating inclusive spaces for people living with dementia.
Rebecca Crichton started her “Encore Career” as Executive Director of NWCCA in 2012 after 21 years with The Boeing Company. She refashioned her skills and knowledge as a writer, curriculum designer, and leadership development coach to offer Creative Aging programs at many Seattle area venues. An active participant in the local aging community, she writes regularly for 3rd Act Magazine.
TICKET INFORMATION:
The Northwest Center for Creative Aging event takes place at Town Hall Seattle. Tickets are available on a sliding scale ($10-$35). For tickets and more information, visit https://townhallseattle.org/event/duane-kelly/
