Remembering is Living – Stories of a Life

The Dancenema Cultural Association, with the support of the ALGARVE 2030 program and the Municipality of Portimão, presents "Remembering is Living – Stories of a Life", an artistic and community project that aims to promote education through art, enhance quality of life, foster social integration, overcome prejudices, and connect different generations.

Based on true testimonies of stories lived by senior volunteers, a plot will be created in which six episodes will be filmed, which will then be published, culminating in a dance performance interpreted by three professional dancers, with the participation of the senior community.

The project begins with an approach to the senior community, offering movement and dramatic expression classes for this population.

This initiative will last for three years, with the following timeline:

2025 - Dance/drama expression classes in the elderly homes of the municipality, interviews/conversations, research, recording of the episodes.

2026 – Creation of the show, rehearsals, continuation of artistic classes for the senior community, performances for schools and the general public of the municipality of Portimão.

2027- Circulation of the show.

The activities will be led by teachers Rita Rodrigues (theater) and Ana Brito (dance).

EPISODE 1 - CHILDHOOD GAMES In this inaugural episode, the participants dive into their childhood memories to recall the most popular games that marked generations. Among street games, songs, and traditions, we revisit these experiences in a completely different setting from the original, showing how some games transcend generations.

EPISODE 2 - FIRST LOVES, MEMORIES THAT STAY FOREVER IN THE HEART In this episode, we share sweet, innocent stories full of emotion, recalling that feeling that is never forgotten. Amid smiles, shyness, and unique memories, we discover how love marks life at any age.

EPISODE 3 - WORKING IN THE OLD DAYS In this episode, participants share stories from a time when work was more than an obligation; it was sustenance, sacrifice, and learning.

Many, while still young, began to help in the fields, at home, or in family trades, learning early the value of effort and responsibility. These are simple yet profound stories that speak of a generation shaped by work and a connection to the land.

EPISODE 3 - MATERNITY AND HEALTH

In this episode, the participants recall what childbirth and healthcare were like in a predominantly rural Portugal. At a time when many births occurred at home and access to doctors was limited, maternity and health were guided by the wisdom of midwives, folk remedies, and the knowledge passed down through generations. These are simple yet profound stories that reveal the strength, courage, and mutual support of a generation that cared for life with the resources they had.