'Playing for Change' tackles mental health issues

DERRY — With May being named National Mental Health Month, students at Pinkerton Academy are raising awareness of the issue through theater.

Pinkerton students are putting on the third annual Playing for Change, a series of short plays written, directed and performed by students to advocate for mental health awareness.

Advisor to the project, Rachel Liff, said she is proud of how students have handled the serious topics they write about.

The project was started in 2022 by a senior who was graduating. Liff said students not even involved with the project were the ones who approached her in 2023.

“It was born out of the pandemic in a way,” Liff said. “Once (the pandemic) subsided a little bit we could gather and do theater more so. The kids were all struggling in their own way in different variations, as I think we all were. They wanted to connect and talk.”

In total, there are five plays ranging from seven to 20 minutes long. The themes are revolve around awareness, how to ask for help, and what to do when struggling with mental health.

Liff said she wanted the students to talk about invisible challenges – things that are not seen by others but are still struggles people have to cope with.

“Some of the plays are a little more personal,” Liff said. “The students wanted to bring awareness to a mental health struggle t hat fewer are aware of and they wanted to raise that awareness.”

In addition to the plays, before the show starts the lobby of Stockbridge Theatre will have resources for students and community members, some artwork hanging by Pinkerton students, and live jazz.

While the plays are happening, each student will speak about what they wrote, and give any warnings that might upset the audience. Liff said people can leave as they need to, and that there is no judgment for an audience member prioritizing their own mental health.

The whole project is about letting people know they aren’t alone and to get the resources to people who need them.

“It’s important to the students to connect with peers on what they’re going through,” Liff said. “Not just to be seen and heard but to encourage the community that it’s ok to speak out and get help and that there are people around to help you.”

The show is at 7 p.m. on May 1 at the Stockbridge Theatre, 5 Pinkerton St. Proceeds go to the National Alliance on Mental Illness New Hampshire and the ticket prices are on a sliding donation scale from $5 to $20.