I didn’t ever think that a play about Alzheimer’s disease would make me giggle, yet the show "My Father’s Bookshelf" did just that.  Local company Live Action Set has created what they call a “tragic comedy” and the description fits.  There were definitely sniffles all around, especially in the moving second act, but surprisingly many laughs were to be had as well.

The play is about husband and father Bob and his family dealing with the onset of his dementia.  It’s hard to describe the inter-disciplinary approach to the production, and it’s better to see it in action anyway.  Much of the play seems to be presenting what’s going on in Bob’s mind; the past overwhelms his present activities often, and memories swirl around literally as the actors run around manically.  The framing device is a presentation on Alzheimer’s, and it demolishes the fourth wall as the actress playing Bob’s daughter in the future delivers this lecture, talking to the audience and to characters onstage in present times.

It’s obvious that the creators and actors in this production care deeply about being both irreverent and respectful.  I stuck around afterward for a short discussion and listened to people who watched their loved ones succumb to Alzheimer’s interact with the play’s co-directors Galen Treuer and Noah Bremer and health professionals.  They stressed that they hope to communicate that people with Alzheimer’s should be loved and assisted in living meaningful lives to their fullest ability. 

They put their money where their mouth is too; the play is in collaboration with a group of people living with Alzheimer’s.  Check out Live Action Set  for further information about workshops for families, caregivers and performers.

Now playing in the Dowling Studio at the Guthrie Theater through June 28.
Tickets $18-$34.