The Little Creepers is a one woman play about a teenage schizophrenic, Jenny, a typical eighteen year old girl in many ways who worries about boys and sex...and inner turmoil created by 'Beastie', an evil force that likes to arrive and infiltrate her thoughts.
"...He is not the nicest, as he frequently inputs with nasty comments and commands actions others would deem as unacceptable" explains Rebecca Morgan, co-founder of Manic Arts Theatre Company which is bringing mental health issues to the fore through accessible theatre.
Set in the present, The Little Creepers explores the trials and tribulations of Jenny, with a thoughtful and relatable story that tackles an often taboo subject matter head-on, aiming to raise awareness whilst simultaneously entertaining the audience and raising a few smiles.
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The play follows Jenny's journey as she tries to conquer her fears, and explores the relationship with her mother, her only confidant, as she attempts to detail the things she sees. But she gets distracted, as most people do...
"Manic Arts is an emerging theatre company that creates theatre that advocates a positive social change" explains Rebecca, who formed Manic Arts with Charlotte Bell after they met at Birmingham School of Acting.
"We are Arts Council funded and supported by mental health charities, and use theatre to entertain, inform and question" she adds.
Rebecca hopes that the play will help to shed light on the reality of living with a serious mental illness. It's an issue that is on the rise, and access to support can be difficult...but The Little Creepers looks to open a discussion...
"It is not spoken about enough and young people are afraid to talk about it, as this isolates them" she says "Mainstream theatre is avoiding the subject as it opens an ongoing dialogue with no follow up. We want to use theatre as a tool to highlight what to do and how to communicate with those suffering from psychotic illnesses."
Jenny is played by local actress, Alexandra Fyfe, who is excited about the prospect of a home performance. It's a weighty role and a challenging task for the young actress, but one she is eager to deliver.
The Little Creepers is a great example of accessible theatre at its very best. It's smart, witty and unafraid to talk openly about mental illness. It capably manages to convey the tale with discretion and humour, and is yet another instance of great, relevant Greater Manchester Fringe entertainment. The Little Creepers gives a pertinent social issue its due respect whilst highlighting the humorous side.
The Little Creepers
Tuesday 25th - Wednesday 26th July
The Kings Arms
Tickets are £8/£5 – to book click here
For more details also see The Little Creepers Facebook event page – click here
Words by Ian Leslie