
Through a blend of grief and humor, the audience is invited to witness the daily struggles and triumphs of the residents in a dementia care facility as they grapple with the gradual loss of Self. Musically supported by the bold and aching melodies of the late Harry Nilsson, the songs provide a haunting backdrop for this musical performance exposé. Joëlle’s compelling vocal interpretations and her chameleon-like portrayals of a dozen featured characters, such as the residents, care aides, and visiting family members alike, are buoyed by Kelly Wyatt’s colorful supporting characters and vocal harmonies. Music director Nico Rhodes, also playing supporting roles, pays homage with insightful musical arrangements of the ageless melodies and reflective lyrics. “I Don’t Belong Here – Stories & Songs at the Edge of Forgetting” offers a compassionate, nuanced approach to dementia, one that embraces empathy, humor, and humanity for those living with it, those who love them, and those who care for them.
The choice for the title was based on the most commonly heard phrase in dementia residences: 'I don’t belong here.'
**See below for the performance schedule**
'Development of a Play' VIDEO
If you asked me what the most engaging and original show to attend in 2026 is, I would say you should definitely book your tickets for 'I Don't Belong Here'.
This musical performance is probably the most unique show I've seen in a long time, as it weaves through the topic of dementia and fosters an incredible connection between the audience and the stage.
You'll be moved, you'll laugh out loud, and you might even cry. It brings the generational disease that many of us fear, out of the shadows and into the limelight! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
What an amazing play! 'I Don't Belong Here' evokes so many different emotions, beautifully enhanced by the music and lyrics of Harry Nilsson – simply brilliant! Each character is brought to life through honest and endearing performances by Joelle Rabu, supported by the amazing Kelly Wyatt and Nico Rhodes. The acting and singing in this musical performance are spot on, and I can see this play going far! Don’t miss it, especially if you're looking for a heartfelt experience that resonates even in a dementia care facility!
This was a very moving piece that was made even more poignant by Joelle Rabu's ability to portray all the different characters with such emotion in the musical performance. How could one's heart not be touched? I had tears in my eyes several times, especially because underlying all this was a deep-felt respect and understanding for the turns their life had taken, much like the experiences shared in a dementia care facility. Kudos to the other two players (Kelly Wyatt & Nico Rhodes) who contributed equally well to the performance.
This particular musical performance was one of the very best. The acting, the singing, the pianist, and the story were all of great quality. We laughed and cried a lot.
The subject of dementia care facility hits close to home for almost everyone, especially with the powerful themes in 'I Don't Belong Here.'
Just saw this excellent performance!
A thoughtful and sensitive performance on a difficult subject matter, particularly relevant for those connected to a dementia care facility. I laughed and cried during 'I Don't Belong Here.' The music selection enhanced the story of each character in this musical performance. Would recommend this show.
This was one of the best bits of theatre I have seen in a long time. Well done!
Great show! One of the top 5 shows I've seen in over 25 years of having season tickets. This musical performance should be run in every community theatre, especially as it sensitively addresses themes relevant to those in a dementia care facility.
The show was excellent, and the cast and writers did a remarkable job presenting a difficult subject in an informative and entertaining manner, particularly with the piece 'I Don't Belong Here.'
November 18-22, 2025 - Evergreen Cultural Centre - Coquitlam
January 17 @ 2pm 2026: - Sid Williams Theatre - Courtenay
January 21 @ 7:30pm 2026 - Mary Winspear Centre - Sidney
January 24-25, 2026: - Malaspina Theatre-Viu - Nanaimo
...more dates coming ...