Gawler Suicide Prevention Group members Sam Harding (left), Stan Roulston, Robyn Stecker, Dana Thomsen and Cody Davies are looking forward to hosting the play ‘Carpe Diem’ at the Gawler Civic Centre next week to raise awareness about mental health. PHOTO: McKenzie Thompson
MCKENZIE THOMPSON
THE Gawler Suicide Prevention Community Group is hosting a play next week to help raise awareness for mental health.
Titled ‘Carpe Diem’, the play has been produced by theatre company Centre Stage Scripts and will be performed at the Gawler Civic Centre on Tuesday, May 7.
The free event will open its doors from 7pm for a 7.30pm start.
Gawler Suicide Prevention Community Group secretary Dana Thomsen said the play will bring locals together to explore an important topic.
“It is a chance for people to come and experience an open conversation about mental health,” she said.
“Sound mental health is essential to our daily lives, and the ability to function and work is paramount to the health and well-being of workplaces, families and communities.”
Set in a fictional town in inland Australia, Carpe Diem portrays the friendship of Nev, who is a hardworking farmer, and his stock agent mate John.
The pair have been impacted by long-running drought, with each suffering their own personal crisis.
Written by playwright Megan Rigoni, the play was inspired by the experiences of people she has met.
It has been described as a “didactic comedy that delivers the mental health messages in a way that is entertaining, immediate and highly relevant”.
The play will be followed by a Q&A, and meet and greet session with actors Chris Pidd and David Meadows.
There will also be a raffle on the night and free supper.
For more information about the group, visit youth.gawler.sa.gov.au/local-services/gawler-suicide-prevention-group/
