Lookup Theatre is a charitable, not-for-profit company performing theatre, multi-media, circus, and aerial arts for rural and urban communities in Ontario. It blends traditional techniques with modern technology to create professional, entertaining, and educational shows. Performances draw on real-life experiences to inspire audiences to live happier and healthier lives. The mandate is two-fold: to produce professional circus shows and social circus work to engage and empower underserved youth through circus arts. The
Talk to Youth Lately (TTYL) mental health social circus program is a group of young people ages 16-30 who have experienced mental health issues or are close friends and family members of those who have. TTYL uses a youth engagement approach, so all performances are written by young people, together with TTYL professional staff. Since the program began in 2008, TTYL has educated more than 15 000 young people and community stakeholders about mental health recovery, anti-discrimination and other relevant ideas both in high schools and at other public forums.
TTYL is currently writing a new show for universities and colleges in Toronto. This performance will focus on recovery-based messages of hope, and the idea that mental health and illnesses occur on a continuum, which are all human experiences. Using theatre and circus skills like juggling, acro-balancing, aerial circus and comedy, we tell our stories and connect with the audience. The youth develop a range of performance skills, receive support from each other and from staff, and get the opportunities to help people understand mental health and challenge the stigma.
For more information about the program specifically, or about Lookup Theatre, please contact
Angola Murdoch, the artistic director at 1-647-267-7647.
