“Victory Lap” by George Saunders
A young teenager’s abduction is told through the perspectives of those involved, calling each of their beliefs into question. Performed by Kimmy Shields, Eli Brown & Jason Butler Harner.
Read more
Theme: On the Emotional Edge
A healthy body is more than just its physical state. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 1 in 5 young people ages 13 to 18, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. Acknowledging and addressing mental health is important to our overall health. For example, depression can increase the risk of various physical health problems in the long-term, such as diabetes and heart disease. Our mental health affects our daily life, impacting how we walk into social situations, handle stress, and understand our personhood.
This very important part of our well-being is often overlooked or considered taboo in certain circles and cultures. These works tackle the complexities of mental health are addressed through provocative characters and situations. By understanding the subtle and glaring ways that mental illness removes individuals, we gain a sense of empathy for afflicted individuals and their loved ones.
“The Escape” by Joyce Carol Oates
Four sisters navigate their unstable living situation with a mother dissociated from reality as she takes them to a train station for a trip with seemingly no end. Performed by Danielle Panabaker.
“Self-Knowledge” by Richard Bausch
A teacher whose life is unraveling hits rock bottom in an episode of alcoholism at her student’s house. Performed by Wendy Makkena.
“Interstellar Space” by Scott O’Connor
Meg, who enjoys all kinds of morbid role-playing games with her sister, Cate, starts hearing voices that she cannot ignore. Performed by MyAnna Buring.
“Gina’s Death” by Charles Baxter
A high schooler ruminates on the death of a classmate who recently took his own life. Performed by Carla Gugino.
“Silver Water” by Amy Bloom
A young woman watches her sister sink into mental illness. Performed by Annette O’Toole.