Theatre / Suicide
Helen Wood’s play breaks the conspiracy of silence surrounding her brother’s death
Many families are harbouring secrets; issues never spoken about. But what comes of unearthing them?
In Helen Wood’s darkly comic and unsparingly honest play about her brother’s death, she recalls the moment when, after her mother’s funeral, her father suddenly said: “Let’s talk about Philip”.
Philip had died by suicide some 32 years prior, and had barely been spoken about since.
is needed now More than ever
Along with co-writer Gregor Hunt, with whom she also acts in the play, Wood decided to delve into her family history and uncover the circumstances surrounding Philip’s death, lifting the conspiracy of silence that had kept the story hidden for so long.
The play is directed by Olivier Award nominee, Derek Bond, and aims to shed light on the importance of resurrecting once buried conversations, through an emotionaly charged hour peppered with moments of levity and absurdism.
“Philip’s death has been a major part of my life,” recounts Wood, “and as a storyteller and performer, I wanted to tell my story through theatre, and honour my brother’s memory.
“This has proved to be hugely cathartic and I hope that by sharing my story, others may be encouraged to talk more about difficult issues.
“My brother went to university in Bristol and later, while he continued to live in the city, his mental health problems began. I’m keen to bring the play and its strong messages to Bristol.”
Let’s Talk About Philip (age recommendation 14+) is at The Alma Tavern & Theatre on November 21-22 at 8pm. Tickets are available at www.tickettailor.com. Follow Helen Wood @HelenNicolaWood.
All photos: courtesy of Helen Wood
Read more: Steve: Saving men from suicide
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