News Summary
‘UnRavelled,’ a world premiere play by Jake Broder, will explore the impact of frontotemporal dementia through the lives of two iconic figures. It will be performed at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, coinciding with a brain health festival that promotes awareness and empathy around FTD. The festival will include art exhibitions, educational components, and discussions led by experts in the field, aiming to reshape the narrative surrounding dementia as a topic of creativity and hope rather than despair.
Beverly Hills to Host World Premiere of “UnRavelled” Exploring Frontotemporal Dementia
“UnRavelled,” a world premiere play by playwright Jake Broder, is set to take place from October 17-19, 2025, at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills. This innovative production delves into the lives of two iconic figures—Canadian painter and biologist Dr. Anne Adams and French composer Maurice Ravel—both of whom endured the challenges of frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
The narrative aims to provide a profound insight into the resilience of the human mind amidst the struggles posed by neurological diseases, showcasing the complex interplay between art and science. The play’s inception was deeply personal for Jake Broder, as his father faced the imminent threat of an undiagnosed dementia during the development stage of the project.
Unique Approach to a Complex Topic
“UnRavelled” is distinguished by its use of a series of “fugue” scenes that illustrate two realities happening simultaneously, bringing to light the impacts of frontotemporal dementia on individuals and their loved ones. FTD is recognized as the most prevalent form of dementia in individuals under 60 in the United States, primarily marked by significant behavioral changes rather than memory loss.
Concurrent Brain Health Festival
The play will coincide with a brain health festival designed to raise awareness surrounding FTD. This festival will feature a major exhibition showcasing Dr. Anne Adams’ artwork alongside brain scans that visually connect her artistic expressions with the trajectory of her condition. The event is organized by Outreach Director Samantha Rose Williams and will incorporate educational components that reflect the intersection of arts and sciences.
In addition to the art exhibition, the festival plans to distribute free copies of dementia-related literature to heighten public understanding of FTD. Notably, a groundbreaking LA Caregiver Roadmap for FTD will be unveiled, intended to connect caregivers with essential resources and support systems. The festival also features tactile displays that simulate the experiences faced by individuals with dementia, promoting empathy among participants.
Community Engagement and Expert Discussions
Following each performance of “UnRavelled,” there will be talk-back sessions attended by experts in frontotemporal dementia and caregiving. These discussions will explore the significant themes presented in the play, providing valuable insights into the condition. Additionally, a serene reflection area, named the Redwood Forest, will be available in the Sculpture Garden at The Wallis for attendees seeking a quiet place to contemplate the experiences shared during the event.
Collaborative Efforts and National Tour
The festival establishes collaborations with various organizations including the Global Brain Health Institute, Cedars-Sinai, UCLA, and multiple pharmaceutical companies to enrich the festival’s offerings and outreach. “UnRavelled” is also planned for a nationwide tour beginning in 2026, with local partnerships being developed in each city to ensure community engagement and continuation of the dialogue around dementia.
This festival and play collectively aim to reshape the narrative surrounding dementia, promoting a message of hope, creativity, and empathy rather than despair. The innovative approach taken in both the performance and festival activities encourages public awareness and a deeper understanding of the profound effects of frontotemporal dementia.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Dentist Sentenced for Mother’s Murder in Beverly Hills
World Premiere of ‘UnRavelled’ to Raise Awareness about FTD
World Premiere of ‘UnRavelled’ to Explore Frontotemporal Dementia
Additional Resources
- Yale Daily News: Chalk Art Festival
- Broadway World: RAW STAGES Festival
- Fox 5 San Diego: San Diego Coffee Festival
- Playbill: Breaking the Binary Theatre Festival
- Choose Chicago: Broadway Night at Grant Park
- Wikipedia: Dementia
- Google Search: Frontotemporal Dementia
- Google Scholar: Frontotemporal Dementia Research
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Frontotemporal Dementia
- Google News: Frontotemporal Dementia
Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
