A new play tackling mental health issues premieres at The Sherman Theatre this month on 18 – 19 July 7.30pm. The Minotaur in Me, written by Paul Whittaker, who has experienced manic depression himself, gained funding from the Arts Council of Wales to be produced in full after having his writing showcased at one of The Sherman’s acclaimed ScriptSlam events last year. The Minotaur in Me is about Hilda Dee, a life-long Manic Depressive who likes most of us, wants to take control of her life. What she gets is a raging mythical beast as a flat mate. Finding themselves both victims of an unsympathetic society, Hilda realises that by teaching the Minotaur the art of communication she may begin to find the ‘voice’ that has eluded her all her life. Paul Whittaker who wrote the play based on his own experiences of Manic Depression comments: “As well as writing an engaging story, I also wanted to make sure I wrote an honest account of manic depression. There’s a lot of humour in the play, something I’ve found a lot of people with mental health issues have to have. I hope audiences enjoy the play for what it is but also take away a new perspective on what is often seen as a taboo and misrepresented subject. Communication is key to understanding these issues.” Maggie Hampton, Director of Disability Arts Cymru comments: “The arts have been one of the worst offenders in helping to perpetuate the old stereotypes and prejudices about mental health issues. If anything is to change, it is vital that people with personal experience of the issues are actively involved in the arts as writers and directors. Paul’s play will be an important landmark in disability-related theatre in Wales.” Marie Buchannon, from the Cardiff and Vale Mental Health Forum adds: “The Forum supports Paul in writing and producing this play to help raise awareness, debate and support around mental health. The fact the play comes from the perspective of someone who has first hand experience can only be a good thing.” The Minotaur in Me is on at The Sherman Theatre on 18 -19 July at 8pm. There will also be an Audio Described performance on Wednesday 19 July. Tickets are just £3 and can be booked from The Sherman Box Office on 029 2064 6900. |
| Sherman Theatre Cardiff web site: www.shermantheatre.co.uk |
| Jenny Boyatt e-mail: mo2@shermantheatre.co.uk |
Tuesday, July 11, 2006 |
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