Craig Hoy MSP is delighted to have sponsored a very successful performance of ‘Men Don’t Talk’, performed in the Scottish Parliament recently.
The play, produced by Genesis Theatre Productions, is part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival, presented in partnership with Scottish Men’s Shed Association and Luminate. It is written by Clare Prenton, stars Billy Mack, Dougal Lee and Greg Powrie, and explores mental health and masculinity in the setting of a fictional men's shed.
Speaking after the special performance in the Scottish Parliament, Craig Hoy MSP said: “Men Don’t Talk was a witty, powerful, and thought-provoking show that tackles critically important topics, particularly given the alarming rates of male suicide and mental health struggles. The play sheds light on some of the barriers men face while opening up about their emotions and the potentially life-saving impact of men’s sheds, where men can connect and talk without judgment.
"I am pleased to have sponsored this play and to see such a great turnout from both within and outside the Scottish Parliament. Inspired by true stories, the play emphasises the need to break the preconception that men don’t talk. Men’s sheds provide spaces for men to talk shoulder to shoulder, making sure no one feels they have no one to turn to. I wish the entire team success in the future and appreciate the hard work and dedication behind the production of Men Don’t Talk."
The show was followed by a panel discussion and Q & A session. The panel consisted of, Paul McLennan MSP, Housing Minister; Michelle McKay, producer; Craig Hoy MSP; Jason Schroeder, CEO Scottish Men’s Shed Association and Adam Stachura, Age Scotland.
Producer of Men Don’t Talk and founder of Genesis Theatre Productions Michelle McKay, added: “I am delighted that the first show produced by Genesis Theatre Productions is such an important one. With the high rates of male suicides in Scotland, the tour aims to highlight the importance of expressing emotions, whilst educating, entertaining, and raising awareness of spaces like Men’s Sheds.’
Writer and Director of Men Don't Talk, Clare Prenton said: “If theatre can play a part in helping one man cross a threshold into a shed, then the play has played its small part in putting men’s health and wellbeing, and suicide prevention, in the cultural conversation.”