Theatre / Men's mental health
Firefly: The Bedminster theatre company supporting men’s mental health
For nearly 40 years, acta Community Theatre in Bedminster has been dedicated to making creative work that brings local people together, sharing stories and amplifying the voices of people across generations and from a diversity of cultures and experiences.
With support from The Baring Foundation, acta has announced Firefly, a new and free-to-join theatre group for men that aims to promote mental health.
Firefly will involve weekly sessions in collaborative theatre-making, aiming, the organisers say, “to overcome life’s hurdles and find hope and positivity.
is needed now More than ever
“Participants will engage in creative games and exercises designed to spark imagination, foster collaboration, and inspire the creation of original stories.
“The group aims to be fun, engaging, and friendly, encouraging men to step out of their comfort zones and try something new.”
Taking its name from the firefly – a symbol of hope and resilience – the group is intending to help its members to navigate the complexities of life, finding light within darkness, and the strength that comes from a sense of mutual connection.
Firefly Theatre is based at acta – photo: acta Community Theatre
The project will work towards the creation of a devised piece of theatre, to be shared at acta’s 80-seat theatre in summer of 2025.
Oliver Jones is the director of acta, and is hugely enthusiastic about what the group could achieve for the community. “It is an extremely timely intervention, as we know there is a real crisis in this area of mental health,” he notes.
“The fact that men are less likely to access psychological therapies than women, and three times as many men die from suicide than women, are indicators of why it is essential to have community-based opportunities such as this.
“Firefly promises to be a fun, creative and, above all, supportive group where men can feel safe and comfortable to express themselves, make new friends and build their confidence.
“We are hoping to work with a wide-range of men from different parts of the community, and we are especially looking forward to meeting men who are new to acta and our approach.”
For more information, please visit www.acta-bristol.com or email info@acta-bristol.com to sign up for taster sessions at 2-3.30pm on September 26 and October 3.
All photos: Firefly Theatre
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