The Bush Theatre have announced cast and creatives for Sophia Chetin-Leuner's This Might Not Be It.
This Might Not Be It, a new play that unflinchingly confronts the hard truths of our crumbling NHS mental health services, opens at the Bush Theatre on 30 January 2024. BOOK TICKETS FOR THIS MIGHT NOT BE IT This candid portrayal of human lives at the mercy of the system is written by former Bush Emerging Writers’ Group member Sophia Chetin-Leuner, directed by Ed Madden (Octopolis, Hampstead) and produced by Broccoli Arts (Salty Irina, Summerhall) in association with Jessie Anand Productions (Orlando, 59E59). The cast are Denzel Baidoo, Debra Baker and Dolly Webb. Bush Theatre Artistic Director Lynette Linton said, ‘We first encountered ‘This Might Not Be It’ following Sophia’s time on our Emerging Writer’s Group five years ago. Its reflection on the state of our mental health provision was urgent then, and it feels as urgent now - especially considering the impact of the pandemic on our NHS mental health services. It is such an important, funny and groundbreaking piece, and we are so happy to be working with Broccoli Arts and Jessie Anand Productions to be able to have it in our space and continue to support Sophia. It’s always so special when we have long-term relationships with artists, and I’m glad that this is a space she is excited to return to.’
‘You care a lot, that’s nice. It shows your age.’
Jay’s new. He’s just started as a temp at an NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service office. He arrives with little more than a fledgling desk plant and well-meaning plans to change the broken system.
Angela’s seen it all. She’s been working in this building for over 30 years, and nothing seems to faze her – except perhaps this eager new hire who seems determined to challenge her at every turn. Exhausted by archaic protocol, Jay starts to bend the rules to breaking point in a desperate attempt to help their patients. Trust is shattered, professional boundaries are crossed, and Jay discovers the reality of what is truly at stake.
Broccoli Arts and Jessie Anand Productions in association with Bush Theatre This Might Not Be It Written by Sophia Chetin-Leuner
Directed by Ed Madden
Set and Costume Designer: Alys Whitehead
Lighting Designer: Laura Howard
Sound Designer: Max Pappenheim
Casting Associate: Fran Cattaneo
Cast: Denzel Baidoo, Debra Baker and Dolly Webb
30 January - 2 March 2024 Monday - Saturday at 8 pm
Wednesday matinees - 7, 14, 21 & 28 Feb at 3 pm
Saturday matinees - 10, 17, 24 Feb & 2 March at 3 pm
Chilled performance - 10 Feb at 8 pm
Captioned performance - 14 Feb at 8 pm
Audio-described performance and touch tour - 21 Feb at 8 pm
Douglas Mayo has had a life long love affair with musical theatre. He has authored several books on publicity and marketing for amateur theatre groups. He is in the process of developing a musical based on his original story concept.
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