Episode #53 - The story of Diane Dupuy and the Famous People Players, a black light theatre company where all the performers are developmentally disabled. The podcast explores the bond between Diane and her mother, Mary Thornton, who lived to the age of 103 in The Village of Humber Heights, and the wisdom and working relationship they shared for 50 years. Have a listen as hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcome Diane Dupuy to share her Story from the Green Bench.

Diane's mother honed in on what she could do and what she was good at rather than what she struggled with.  She excelled in imagination and creativity. 

"My mother built me a puppet theatre when I was a little girl. She told me not to be afraid as the puppets will do the talking for me." - Diane Dupuy

She enjoyed performing closely with her friend at local events, Doug Henning, who went on to become a world-renowned magician.

"As long as your imagination makes the world a better place." - Mary Thornton

"Great spirits always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds." -Albert Einstein

In creating the Famous People Players Diane chose the black light technique as no one would see the players, and who they are, so they won't be afraid of them. 

"My mother was my partner, my supporter all the way." -Diane Dupuy

Visit famouspeopleplayers.com to see photos, get tickets, and learn more.

With the support from Humber Heights resident, Freida Griffiths, educational programs were created as part of the Famous People Players organization. 

"There is so much magic in black light, everything floats, everything defies gravity before your eyes. It’s a live cartoon on stage." - Diane Dupuy

Diane & Mary are recipients of the Order of Canada and many awards and recognitions in their 49 years of work.

Diane and Evelyn share the experience of having fighting cancer.  Hear the wisdom from both of them as they encourage others to keep moving forward and living life to the fullest.

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The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com