A new drama project has been launched in Burnham-On-Sea this week that aims to raise awareness of mental health issues and tell the story of town teenager Charley Marks who died last autumn.
Called ‘About Charley’, the project has been launched by Burnham drama teacher Selena Keedwell and has been backed by Charley’s family and friends.
The production explores the local community’s reaction to the 18 year-old taking his life last September. It features interviews with local people who were touched by the tragedy.
“It’s all about getting Charley’s story out there and also offering help and support too for those affected by mental health,” said Jo Burridge-Clayton, who is one of the team behind the production.
A special launch evening was held at Burnham’s BASC Ground on Monday (May 18th) where invited guests got to see snippets form the production, included recorded voices and dialogue from actors.
“We are working to get funding to take the production out to schools and colleges to spread the word about mental health, provoke discussion and raise awareness,” added Jo.
She added that the group is keen to hear from actors and actresses in the area who would be interested in getting involved.
It’s intended that the theatre work will be supported, in the longer term, by accompanying workshops and an education package that reaches out to young people and their families.
It has the full backing of In Charley’s Memory, the charity created to support local young people with mental health issues.
Pictured: Selina Keedwell, Jo Clement, Jo Burridge-Clayton, Daisy-Mae Marks and Emily Sanders at Monday’s launch (pic Mike Lang)
