What the show is about
Since 2008, PHS Rep Theatre classes, in collaboration with Professional Playwright Debbie Lamedman, have produced original plays that focus on social issues relevant to teens. Past topics have included prescription drug use, dating violence, bullying, eating disorders, climate change, Autism and differences, socio-economic diversity, and technology addiction.
This year's show, "Drowning in Quicksand," focuses on mental illnesses that commonly affect youth — a timely subject that has been in national media many times for the past year. And the way in which it’s played out on stage will be especially powerful: “Mia," the seemingly perfect and pretty school athlete seeks to end her life, while her classmate, a “cutter,” overwhelmed with anxiety and depression, struggles to decide which path she should take.
This year's show, "Drowning in Quicksand," focuses on mental illnesses that commonly affect youth — a timely subject that has been in national media many times for the past year. And the way in which it’s played out on stage will be especially powerful: “Mia," the seemingly perfect and pretty school athlete seeks to end her life, while her classmate, a “cutter,” overwhelmed with anxiety and depression, struggles to decide which path she should take.
Why it's important
As many as 2 to 3 percent of children ages 6 to 12, and 6 to 8 percent of teens may have serious depression. An estimated 2.8 million youth ages 12 to 17 had at least one major depressive episode in 2014. Furthermore, about 80 percent of kids with an anxiety disorder and 60 percent with depression are not getting treatment.
Self-injury is the deliberate, self-inflicted destruction of body tissue without suicidal intent. Although cutting is one of the most well-known self-injury behaviors, it can take many forms ranging from cutting or burning to self-bruising or breaking bones. It is estimated that one in every 200 girls between 13 and 19 years old cut themselves regularly.
Bring a teen you care about. Or come by yourself. But see it.
Self-injury is the deliberate, self-inflicted destruction of body tissue without suicidal intent. Although cutting is one of the most well-known self-injury behaviors, it can take many forms ranging from cutting or burning to self-bruising or breaking bones. It is estimated that one in every 200 girls between 13 and 19 years old cut themselves regularly.
Bring a teen you care about. Or come by yourself. But see it.
Who should see it
The 45-minute production will be appropriate for middle and high school aged students (grades 6 through 12), although students ending their fifth grade year who are mature enough to handle the subject matter certainly are welcome. After each show, the cast and community members will take the stage to conduct a 20-30 minute "talk-back" Q&A session with audience members.
