People who have mental health issues have to tell their story over and over again- to therapists, doctors, their families, and friends…the same trauma over and over, yet often find it is hard for them to be really heard. Sometimes they can’t find the words and their stories get smaller and quieter the more they try to explain.
As a performer and director I have always been keen to work with people who believe they ‘can’t act’, people who consider performing is not for them.
When I started working at MIND I wanted to give people a new way of expressing themselves, a loud way, a place they could shout and scream or whisper and still be heard. They could use mime, puppets, comedy, dance, stand alone on the stage or in a group- this would be their show, their voice.
I started the group after I had discussed the concept with my manager and contacted The Art Bank in Shepton Mallet, as they have a small stage in a beautiful creative space. Once I had found the right space we were ready. For the first four weeks, the small group of 5 women (referred from Mind in Somerset 1 to 1 workers) sat and drank tea as we discussed anxiety, grounding, and fear, and they looked at the stage and all said they wouldn’t be able to get on it or act. I continually reminded them they were going at their own pace, with no rush. But it is not just acting – we are looking at what to include in our script, so writers are welcome, as well as costume design, musicians, painters, notetakers and general involvement.
We are now about 10 weeks on, they are all on stage doing improvisation, using props, whispering, shouting and laughing supporting each other. The group consists of different ages, different mental health histories, and different backgrounds but they listen and encourage each other and hold hands if they cry. It has been a humbling and proud journey for me as a Recovery and Wellbeing Worker. I am astonished by their bravery, their ideas, their honesty, and their ability to try even when it’s hard.
We are aiming to write a series of monologues about mental health- some funny, some sad, some inspiring, whatever they want to say however they want to say it.
We welcome new group members, it is not just acting – we are also looking at what to include in our script, so writers are welcome, as well as costume design, musicians, painters, notetakers and general involvement.
Quotes from the group
‘’I am a worthwhile person and I deserve to share my story’’
‘’On some level I want to dress up and act, because I can lose myself in it’’
‘’I love coming to this group, I never thought I would get on a stage but now I love it- I can be whoever I want’’
World Tour next year!!
For further information, including how to refer please contact:
Sioux How, Recovery and Wellbeing Worker – Open Mental Health @ Mind in Somerset
Sioux.how@mindinsomerset.org.uk