Care Community stories

A special day for residents at Manly Hillside

9th February 2026 | 2 min read
Manly Hillside Residents at Pretty Women Musical

A day at the theatre is a joyous experience; bringing laughter, tears, and evoking memory. 

For residents at Manly Hillside Care Community on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, a performance of Pretty Woman: The Musical at the Theatre Royal Sydney was all this and much more – it was a day packed with special surprises. 

Residents started their day at our salon, where team member Odette beautifully styled each lady’s hair before residents and team boarded the bus for the scenic trip over Sydney Harbour to the front door of the Theatre Royal in the Sydney CBD. 

Residents enjoyed a beautiful lunch prepared by team member Rezida before taking their seats for what wellbeing manager Jo-Anne described as a ‘truly magical’ experience.

During intermission, residents were delighted to meet and chat with Ethan, one of the producers of Pretty Woman, who shared fascinating insights about the show. 

And there was more to come: at the conclusion of a performance that brought rapturous applause from our residents, we were moved by the generosity of the actors, who made time to meet us, pose for photos, share stories and make every resident feel welcome and valued.

Resident Jennifer said “The show captured our attention completely from beginning to end. We came out of the theatre and into our normal world feeling like we’d been somewhere else. We enjoyed the day so much.”

“The kindness and care of the actors and the team at the Theatre Royal was truly appreciated,” said Jo-Anne. “One resident, Sandra, was moved to tears by the performance, telling me how wonderful it was. Another resident, Elizabeth, simply asked when we can do it all again!”