A multi-layered exploration of the inequalities of treatment within the mental health system
Christopher has been confined to a psychiatric ward for a month. He wants out. The problem is he still thinks oranges are blue. His doctor, convinced he needs help, wants to section him. The senior consultant thinks it’s all a question of culture: at home in Shepherd’s Bush Christopher will be amongst ‘people who think just like him’. And besides, it costs taxpayer money to keep Christopher in care. Race, ethics, sanity and prejudice collide in Joe Penhall’s exquisitely sharp ‘state of the nation’ classic.
The award-winning Blue/Orange, written by Joe Penhall, where a talented trio of performers will bring new vibrancy to the powerful and provocative play, tackling issues of race, mental health and institutional power.
The cast comprises John Michie, Rhianne Barreto, and Matthew Morrison.
Highlighting inequalities in the treatment of mental health through sharp, confrontational dialogue and psychological tension, the plot follows a young, enigmatic Black patient named Christopher (Morrison), who claims to be the son of an African dictator, and the two psychiatrists responsible for his treatment.
In a coup for the South London venue, Penhall will be revisiting his original groundbreaking script by repositioning the character of Bruce from a young White British man to a young South Asian woman. Not only does this shift ensure a more accurate representation of what the NHS looks like in 2025 but also raises the tension and stakes between the three characters, creating a multi-layered exploration of the inequalities of treatment within the mental health system.
Artistic Director James Haddrell comments, “I am delighted to have such an exciting cast taking on this new production of Blue/Orange, and to be working with Joe Penhall to amend the script for this 25th anniversary revival. Changing the character of Bruce, written and traditionally presented as a young white man, to a young south Asian female gives new resonance to her interactions with the other characters, adds further layering to debates about race and cultural heritage, and presents a more contemporary picture of health care in Britain in the 2020s.”
With the casting announcement and updated script reflecting the lives and experiences of modern British health professionals, this production showcases Greenwich Theatre’s commitment to producing powerful theatre that will challenge audiences to reflect on important topics like prejudice and systemic bias.
Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, London, SE10 8ES from 1st – 25th October.
Booking and full details: https://greenwichtheatre.org.uk/events/blueorange/
