FACT: My mother committed a slow suicide. She was never properly diagnosed and would end up addicted to pain killers for all the pain inside her. Have you heard the expression, "Secrets can kill?"
FACT: My mother hid a lot from me growing up with an immense amount of shame. Traumatic events can trigger manic/depressive episodes, as well as depression and anxiety. Mom's death, ongoing therapy, my diagnosis and time to heal contributed to my forgiveness of her actions and mental state.
Our show is dedicated to her love for me and mine for her.
FACT: Every human being is going through something. We are not in this alone. There is help out there and there is still a good life to be had after a diagnosis. Human beings with bipolar disorder are not crazy. In fact, we have a lot to contribute to the arts and to science. We are in good company.
The goal: a stable life filled with passion and creativity, to be a person in society people can count on.
A motivational cabaret benefit for artists and others who can't afford psychiatric and medicinal care occurring on November 5th, 2022 at Riverside Theatre in NYC at 7pm.
*All proceeds of the live show ticket sales will go the Entertainment Community Fund
(TICKETS ON SALE IN SEPTEMBER)
This show is for those who feel alone and in the dark with regards to their own mental health, as well as their loved ones who may not understand what someone is going through and yearns to know more. May my mother's and my story be a beacon of hope for people in need, struggling with mental illness.
PLEASE NOTE: I am fully aware I am not a clinical professional, but only here to stand in my truth, not in shame, but to give hope that there is life after diagnosis and it doesn't have to be scary.
We know this story must continue to be told so that others see, hear and feel there is hope for a balanced life with mental illness. Through the magic of filmmaking, we want to create a story that lives beyond November 5th, 2022.
THE HOPE: To provide resources and hope for others who may feel in the dark when it comes to helping their brain and who suffer from mood disorders, or any other mental illness.
THE GOALS:
1. To film the show live on November 5th, 2022, so that it may be purchased and live on streaming services, world wide.
2. Serve as a tour to colleges and high schools, including a talkback, spreading awareness.
3. Be a limited engagement in any theatre across the globe.
"It's funny, but ever since I was young, people used to ask me, "Chryssie, what are you on?!" and I would say, "Life, people, you!"
Phone call from Italy:
"Ciao, Momma, Buon Giorno! Um, Momma, I just got an email from Charles...."
Silence.
"What did he say?"
"Umm, he said that....
From Left to Right:
Music Director: Nick Wilders
Producer: Kirsten Wrinkle
Director: Bryan Knowlton
Mentor: Elaine Petricoff
(All continuing with proj
After the first staged reading with only three in the audience, plus filmmaker, Blake Zelesinikar with BZ FILMS.
The end of our reading with wonderful feedback to keep us going. Photos were captured by Joy Kilpatrick who is directing the film version.
I wouldn't be doing this show without the love and financial support from the iconic, Kirsten Wrinkle. After the reading, in tears, "I feel hope."
Copyright © 2018 Chryssie Whitehead is an Actress, Masterclass Educator, Director & Choreographer with a performing career over 20 years. - All Rights Reserved.
Powered by GoDaddy