The Experience of Engaging With Research-Based Drama: Evaluation and Explication of Synergy and Transformation

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Abstract
Researchers describe how audiences experienced a research-based drama called I’m Still Here ; a production about persons and families living with dementia. The research drama was created to help diminish the unnecessary suffering that accompanies the misunderstanding and judgment of persons living with dementia. This article describes the immediate experience of seeing, hearing, and feeling research findings that have been transformed through drama. We explored how participants described the experience of engaging with the drama—what words they used, what was felt, and what lingered after the performance was over. Seven patterns or processes, called patterns of synergy are described: seeing anew; connecting with reverberating truths; placing and relating self; sensing embodied impact, discerning meaningful learning; expanding understanding of perspective; and affirming personal knowing. Each pattern of synergy is considered in light of participant quotes and extant literature. Findings support the promise of the arts in health-related research and education.

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