MHA Pennystone Court resident who has love for dancing experiences ballet again thanks to Seize the Day initiative

A dancing enthusiast living at MHA Pennystone Court was able to put on her dancing shoes again thanks to the home arranging a ballet experience for her.

Dorothy Murphy (95) has been living at the Blackpool home since January 2026 and was a keen dancer in her younger days.

It was through dancing that Dorothy met her husband and spent many a night dancing away at The Ritz in Manchester.

Following a conversation with activity coordinator Louise Hambleton, Dot visited Showstoppers in Topping Street where she bought dancing ballet shoes before going to the Whittaker Dance and Drama Centre, in Hornby Road where she had a dance class.

The Seize the Day initiative encourages residents to re-experience activities or events from the past or to do something they would like to do for the first time.

MHA Pennystone Court provides dementia and residential care for 36 residents.

"Louise asked Dorothy if she would like to experience dancing again, and she lit up when she was having the discussion with Louise."

Marcina Sowe, Deputy Home Manager said: " Dorothy's love for dancing was discovered following a conversation she had with Louise.

"This was all mentioned in her support plan, which then got Louise thinking as to what we can do for her.

"Louise asked Dorothy if she would like to experience dancing again, and she lit up when she was having the discussion with Louise.

"Dorothy was a little unsure at the time due to her age and fragility, but once she had agreed, Louise went away to get the wheels in motion.

"The dance centre was more than happy to accommodate, which led to Dorothy going to Showstoppers and picking her ballet shoes.

"She had a one-to-one session to begin with, before mingling with the other members.

"She had a wonderful time, and the plan is to continue these sessions, by getting the dance teacher from the centre to visit the home and teach dance to other residents as well.

"We were all so happy for Dorothy and look forward to welcoming the centre to MHA Pennystone Court."