5 people. 5 stories. 90 minutes.
The People I Know
Our signature 90-minute theatrical experience, seen by over 5,000 people in Illinois so far, shares the stories of 5 adults impacted by mental illness. Performed by a cast of professional actors.
We can also bring out other stories on different topics! Just call and ask and we’ll mix and match for you.
This show is excellent for schools, hospitals, churches, community centers, etc. We’ll come to you.
Upcoming Shows
- Nov 13
- First United Methodist Church at Chicago Temple. Ticket information.
Cast
- Wes Clark as Jonathan
-
Gives audiences a glimpse into the struggles of living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder as well as the blessings and treasures that it has given him.
- Jennifer Mathews as Cassie
-
Has a sister who required cranial radiation for childhood leukemia. No one thought it would lead to schizophrenia. Now her family is faced with many overwhelming questions.
- Brighid O'Shaughnessy as Lisa
-
Goes from high school senior class president-to college dropout-to a Master’s degree, beautiful family and the acceptance of being both a licensed clinical social worker and someone who lives with bipolar disorder.
- Meredith Siemsen as Herself
-
Learns after her own battles with depression that it runs in her family, and then forges a close relationship with her dad over their shared experience.
- Craig C. Thompson as Ben
-
Began experimenting with pot in high school and became dedicated to it in college. He smoked every day for nearly five years, despite interventions by his close friends.
- Amos Ellis as Lawrence
-
Lawrence speaks about his struggle to find sobriety from alcohol when the anger inside of him feels like it has no release.
- Anish Jethmalani as Suresh
-
Suresh finds hope following his brother's suicide through his Hindu faith, unwavering advocacy, and the support of a family and community willing to stand by each other.
- Krista Hansen as Lisa/Karen
-
Tells the stories of Lisa and Karen in The People I Know for special performances
- Chris Hauser as Ben
-
Tells the story of Ben for most day-time performances
I just saw The People I Know at UIC last week and found it to be a phenomenal experience. I’ve just helped to start up a Disability Awareness Committee at my church and I thought this performance could be a great first event held by our group.— Katie Keiling, UIC student and Disability Services Coordinator Read more testimonials
Important numbers
-
1 in 4
People will experience a mental disorder in a given year. With 25% of the population directly impacted, this vital issue demands our attention.
-
4 of 10
Leading causes of disability in the U.S. and other developed countries are mental disorders. The consequences are staggering: unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, inappropriate incarceration, suicide, broken relationships, and wasted lives.
-
2,000,000
Adults with a serious mental illness reported that they did not receive adequate treatment. Thinking it could be handled on one’s own, concerns about stigma, & not knowing where to go for help all stood in the way. ETD’s shows help people overcome those barriers.