Spotlight On Mental Health In Young People

A timely new theatre show, Claire Della and the Moon, will bring the topics of mental health, depression and anxiety in young people to the stage when it opens in September in Adelaide.

The production uses puppetry, music, visuals and poetic storytelling to open up honest and positive conversations as audiences discover the brave world of Claire Della.

At the heart of the play is Claire Della, who just doesn’t fit in. The things that make sense to everyone else don’t seem to make sense to her, and the world is a loud and frightening place. Claire retreats to the safety and quiet of the moon, where there is no one to disappoint. It’s Claire’s journey back home that truly inspires.

The brainchild of two versatile emerging South Australia artists Ellen Graham and Jamie Hornsby, Claire Della and the Moon is the latest show from Adelaide theatre company, Madness of Two. The production was developed through the inaugural Hall of Possibility Artist Residence program at Slingsby Theatre Company.

According to Ellen Graham, Claire Della and the Moon is the perfect show for these trying times.

“With everything going on in the world at the moment there isn’t a better time to bring Claire Della’s story to life”, she said.

“We hope that the production can offer some positivity to young audiences and provide a resource to positively manage their mental health, stress and anxiety”.

In addition to the creative team including, Shannon Rush (Director), Mark Oakley (Lighting) and Stephanie Fisher (Puppet Design), the play was developed in consultation with Ok Psychology.

For Jamie Hornsby the consultation with Ok Psychology adds an important dimension to the production.

“We wanted to ensure that the show is authentic and having the expertise of Principal Psychologist, Simon Andrews really ensured that the show is an accurate reflection of both the times and the sensitive ground it covers,” he said.

“The theme of mental health needs to be handled with care and sensitivity. The process for Ellen and I has been one of discovery, learning and one that has instilled us with hope for the future”.

Claire Della and the Moon is presented with the support of the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

The season will consist of a series of South Australian school and public performances from 23 September – 4 October 2020 at Parks Theatre, 46 Cowan St, Angle Park, South Australia.

Tickets for Claire Della and the Moon (Ages 7+) are priced at $10 per student for school performances and $20 each for the general public performances.

General tickets can be purchased at: https://www.trybooking.com/BJKLG

School bookings can be made via email at Jamie@madnessoftwo.com.au

About Madness of Two:

Madness of Two is a new theatre company, founded by Ellen Graham and Jamie Hornsby. Using their own special blend of innovative writing, devised theatre-making, whimsy and charm, Madness of Two tackles important issues in non-traditional ways. The company creates work in multiple genres, with multiple styles, and for multiple demographics, with a strong focus on young and diverse audiences. Ellen and Jamie were the inaugural recipients of Slingsby’s Hall of Possibility Artist in Residency program, where they developed ‘Claire Della and the Moon’ and formed their own company.

COVID-19 Statement:

The safety of audiences, artists and staff is our top priority. We will continue to monitor advice from local Government and Parks Theatre regarding live performance and gatherings and follow guidance as necessary.