Central London Samaritans has been approached by the SevenArc Productions as they create a new piece of work ‘In Limbo’. This original play explores the prominence of male suicide in today's society and tells the story of James, who finds himself in Limbo after taking his own life, as he is encouraged to reflect on different aspects of his life and decisions he has made. CLS’ Outreach, Partnerships & Events Manager Mark Harris has met with the cast and the Director as the characters and storyline have been developed. Mark said: “It’s been a pleasure working with the team at SevenArc. They have shown such enthusiasm for telling this story but also been really responsible in wanting to work within Samaritans media guidelines for dramatic productions. They have also shown great commitment to making sure the language used in the play is authentic. This, plus the fact the play will be shown at a theatre that’s so local to the branch gives us a great opportunity to raise awareness of our service within the local community”.
SevenArc’s Anna MacArthur said: “The idea of In Limbo originated from learning about the shocking increase in the number of male suicides over the past few years that we heard about in the media. Being a company of young adults, we were particularly shocked and upset to hear about reality stars who we are familiar with, along with older men from TV and film that we grew up watching, take their own lives.
In addition to this, every member of our company has, in some way, a direct link to suicide either in the family or a close friendship. As actors, we understand the importance of vulnerability and truthfulness. We have been training together at East 15 Acting School, where so much emphasis is placed on opening up and being at one with who you are. Therefore, the concept of deep human suffering, mental health and suicide is something that we feel we believed we could approach in a sensitive way and with love and care.
We approached Mark Harris at Central London Samaritans to ask for his views. We asked him what it was he felt UK audiences most needed to hear, taking inspiration from his vast and direct experience supporting those who contact the Samaritans. He has been so helpful in talking to us about what it means to truly listen to someone who may be in pain and the value of human connection. Mark's support and contribution has been vital to the development of our professional debut at Tristan Bates Theatre. With his help, we aim to convey a message that is concise and relevant to a modern audience.
We firmly believe this is a message that is for everybody. Human suffering and the need for human connection and are a fundamental part of our experience of simply being alive.“
In Limbo is on at the Tristan Bates Theatre from the 31st July to the 3rd of August and tickets are available here.