Musical production in support of Mental Health Awareness Month

In just a couple of weeks (9 days to be precise), a new non-for-profit Melbourne-based company will be performing their debut performance - a production of Next To Normal in support of Mental Health Awareness Month.

Next To Normal is a highly acclaimed rock musical which explores mental illness and family ties in a suburban context. This production aims to use the accessible and engaging medium which theatre provides to inform the wider community about this significant social issue and to bring mental illness, and the stigma and trouble attached to it, into the forefront of our audiences minds. In support of Mental Health Awareness Month, we have collaborated with SANE Australia and local councils to produce this piece of work.  In support of the cause, certain proceeds will be going to SANE Australia. We've attempted to maintain a realistic representation of mental illness by working in collaboration with mental health professionals and suffers of BiPolar Disorder and similar illnesses. 

The company presenting this "brave, breathtaking musical" is new to the Melbourne Arts Scene, only forming last year. Pursued By Bear is made up of dedicated young theatre-makers with an interest in spreading positive social messages whilst providing a platform for other young creatives to become involved in all things theatre-related regardless of prior experience.