Mind Play tackles mental health taboos

30 June 2010

The region’s talented drama students will be treading the boards this week competing in the finals of the annual MindPlay school drama competition.

Now in its 14th year, MindPlay encourages Year 11 Students from schools in the Hunter, Central Coast and Manning regions to submit a 15-minute play with a mental health theme. 

Six finalists have been selected from 12 entries this year and will take to the stage for the grand final at the Hunter Theatre, Hunter School of Performing Arts on Friday 2 July.  Doors open at 7.15pm and the public is invited to attend.

The finalists are:
 
Lambton high School - with a play on Aspergers Syndrome
Toronto High School - with a play on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Bulahdelah Central School - with a play on Schizophrenia
Gloucester High School - with a play on Depression
Taree Christian College - with a play on Anxiety
Warner's Bay High School - with a play about Autism
 
MindPlay is an initiative of the Hunter Institute of Mental Health, a unit of Hunter New England Health, and is being supported this year by Samaritans and Hunter New England Mental Health Services.

“Students have to research, write and perform their plays, and they do a tremendous job,” organiser Liz Cook said.

“And there are cash prizes up for grabs also.

“The end result is always a stunning, often moving theatrical event, and it is a great chance for the community to come along, be entertained, and learn a little along the way.”

Three plays are performed either side of intermission. Emcees for the night are Sarah and Steve St John from radio station NEW FM. 
 
Tickets are $12 per person and available by contacting the Hunter Institute of Mental Health on 4924 6721 or email himh@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au for an order form or visit www.himh.org.au and purchase tickets from the online store.  There will be no door sales. 

Contact: Frances Holz

Phone: 4939 2216