To Be Determined Theatre Co. is producing John F. Ross’s Senior Acting & Technical Theatre Program’s production of A Permanent Solution… this spring.
Written by Canadian playwright Tom Slater, the play delves into the issues of depression and suicide in teens.
A Permanent Solution… approaches the topics head on and its young actors care about these issues and understand they will not go away simply because they are kept quiet.
“There are many reasons youth attempt suicide. Most do not want to die. When the pressures become unbearable, suicide may seem like the only solution,” the Suicide Awareness Council says. “Some youth will seek help. Others will not. Understanding the issues youth face is an important step in preventing suicidal deaths.”
Organizers state the production gives both information and hope, making it a perfect fit for high school audiences.
A Permanent Solution… follows the lives of a group of friends dealing with the issues of depression and suicide. Lisa, a straight-A student with a bright future, struggles with issues from the past that have haunted her for years.
She has been dating her boyfriend Jason for two years, but he is unsure he is still committed to the relationship, even though he still loves her deeply. Her best friend Dee, having dealt with mental health issues, tries to be supportive while Brad, Jason’s best friend uses humour to help his friends and disguise his own problems.
The Arts Department at Ross has won countless awards for their shows over the years and have also been chosen to represent the country internationally. TBD Theatre Co. also has an exceptional record of teen programing, productions and awards and has performed Canadian-written, socially-infused teen shows at Ontario schools, libraries and festivals.
A Permanent Solution… is aimed at high school audiences and is touring the Wellington and Dufferin area this spring, branching into other school boards by the fall.
The Suicide Awareness Council of Wellington-Dufferin & the Upper Grand District School Board have also compiled information for teachers and school workers to aid in pre- and post-show lessons to ensure that the subject matter is given the care and responsibility it requires.
There will be a number of public performances in May, including a free performance on May 6 at J.F. Ross High School at 7pm.
For more information or to book a performance contact Alexandra Lent 519-265-1768 or alent@tobedeterminedtheatre.ca.
