Held on the Saturday before Dementia Action Week (19–25 May), the event invited anyone affected by dementia to take part in an uplifting afternoon of music, singing, dancing, and other entertaining performances.
CDFC encourage the development of dementia-friendly initiatives throughout Calderdale and continues to inspire others to make inclusivity a standard across all areas of our community.
Now in its second year, the talent show was sponsored by Bluebird Care and recognised as a CultureDale legacy event, with event promotion and coverage by Assiduous Productions.
The afternoon was hosted by Ukulele Henry and Sarah Jay, who kept the audience entertained with delightful interludes between acts.
The event was opened by Pam Dimbleby, daughter of the late Nora Barton, who was the oldest contestant to appear on Britain’s Got Talent in 2020 at the age of 96. Despite living with Alzheimer’s, Nora wanted to show that life doesn’t stop with a diagnosis and that dreams are still worth chasing.
A lifelong singer from Brighouse, it had always been her dream to perform at the London Palladium, a dream she fulfilled before sadly passing away in 2021.
Pam has proudly carried on her mother’s legacy, including performing in her memory at events such as Dementia Has Got Talent, ensuring Nora’s inspirational message lives on.
A firm favourite with guests, Mary, once again took to the stage at this year’s event. She began learning the piano two years ago with the support of a young music student.
Now, at 82 years old and living with both Parkinson’s Disease and dementia, she opened her performance by declaring, “This is what you CAN do if you’ve got Parkinson’s or dementia.”
Mary performed three songs on the piano: If You Really Love Me, Yesterday, and her personal favourite, The Impossible Dream, a song that resonates deeply with her, as she feels her own “impossible dream” has come true.
You can watch a video of one of Mary’s performances here:
The day was filled with joy, warm applause, and deep appreciation for every performer. It was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved, and that a diagnosis such as dementia does not have to define or limit a person’s life.
It was especially heartwarming to witness individuals like Phil, a passionate poet, find the courage and confidence to read his poems aloud.
Lucy, a regular at Memory Lane Café, gave a beautiful vocal performance that captivated the audience. At 98 years old, she has always had a deep love for singing, and her renditions of The Loveliest Night of the Year and Wonderful World were truly moving.
Graham, another familiar face from Memory Lane, also took to the stage with his guitar. He treated guests to a heartfelt set, performing Hotel California, Till There Was You, and The Way We Were (Memories).
Dementia Has Got Talent proved that it’s never too late to share your voice, try something new, or simply shine and we can’t wait to see what next year brings.
Calderdale Dementia Friendly Community is dedicated to creating a borough where people living with dementia, and those who care for them, feel understood, supported, and included. Through regular events, partnerships, and local initiatives, CDFC works to break down stigma and promote awareness, proving that life with dementia can still be vibrant, meaningful, and full of opportunity.
To find out more or get involved, visit: https://calderdaledementiafriendlycommunity.co.uk/
