Treading Water

More details of our group exploring themes connected to mental health have been added to the site.

Treading Water is a theatre group made up of adults who have experienced mental health problems who all share a passion for acting and performance. It was set up by Dead Earnest to create a highly successful forum theatre piece that explored mental illness and it’s affects within a family.

We are developing the project to enable the group to build on their skills and develop their devising, writing and performance abilities. The project will also involve training the members of the group to become facilitators of the Forum work, meaning that they are more autonomous in their approach.  During this process the group will create two engaging theatre pieces which will challenge new audiences’ perceptions and views on mental health issues. The group will  be given the opportunity to perform at venues further a field and raise awareness around mental health.  

  Treading Water has been a very successful group where members have shown incredible commitment and attended all sessions, rehearsals and performances. As well as the current members, there is a waiting list of people who have contacted Dead Earnest with interest in joining the group.

The area in which this group meets is reasonably deprived with a higher than average amount of people with Mental Health problems.   Dead Earnest has a vulnerable adult policy which we adhere to at all times. We also have strong links with the local Primary Mental Health Project who we are able contact for advice. The project leader has worked in the disability sector and is very experienced at running groups of this kind. All participants are welcome to bring a carer or key worker with them for extra support.  Many people within this user group are isolated, alone and in need of social engagement. This group provides a ‘lifeline’ to those people.

Not only does it provide a safe and welcoming space providing friendship, but it also gives every individual a purpose – to participate in an enjoyable activity where they are needed and respected. The project will make a difference to these people’s lives as well as the audience members who watch and participate in their performance pieces.  This project will undoubtedly increase all participant’s skills in writing, devising, acting and performance.

 The very nature of devised theatre asks every individual to think creatively and imaginatively. Because the drama that is produced comes from the members themselves, rather than from a written script, the end result is something that is personal to them. The forum theatre technique that this group uses incorporates improvised live performance. Creatively this is a challenging art form but one that is rewarding and exhilarating for both performers and audience.

As well as the creative and artistic skills gained this project will help develop important social and personal skills. Improved confidence, communication, commitment and trust.  For many people suffering with a mental illness, isolation and loneliness is a common problem. This project brings people together and provides a stimulating and positive environment. Participants have commented in the past on how it has given them a purpose and a focus to their week.

By developing theatre pieces, the group all have a shared bond and a common goal. They are given something to work towards and look forward to. Being socially and creatively engaged in a positive improves the quality of life for all involved.   As participants will be referred through a mental health project in the local area and encouraged to bring a carer or key worker with them, they will be more able to join in at ease. Current members of the group also are able to welcome new participants and will ensure that they are made to feel part of the group.  

The group have been given a small grant to record their original play on CD and to be aired on local radio.