On Christmas Eve, 2017, Naked Frank Theatre reached out to vulnerable adults, living permanently in mental health units. Performing their Christmas musical, Who Spilt Santa's Secret?, to mental health facilities the company encouraged service-users, who would otherwise have spent their Christmas alone, to celebrate together. Written as an alternative Christmas musical, the show combined singing, dancing and storytelling in an unconventional manner.
"Though we cannot replace home comforts, we aim to introduce vulnerable individuals to a community that cares and is inclusive. We want to help to create positive, lasting memories. We want vulnerable people to know that they haven't been forgotten. "
The cast of Who Spilt Santa's Secret? was made up of eleven young actors, all working on a voluntary basis. The aim was to give young people the opportunity to engage in theatre at Christmas and use art to positively change vulnerable people's lives.
"Christmas is for everyone and the ironic truth is that most people forget that at the time of year that is meant to be about good will and giving. This project shines a very positive light on the generosity and kindness of humans. Our cast have given their time for free; for no other reason than to make someone else, whom they don't know, happy. That's the true spirit of Christmas."
CREATIVE TEAM
WRITER Carleigh-Ann Portelli
DIRECTOR Carleigh-Ann Portelli Claire Louise Portelli
CAST Alex Bullen Anna Regelous Carly Kerr Emma Black Hannah Robinson Harry Davis Jamie Pearton Louise Clarke Rachel King Natalie Murphy Natasha Nicola
PRODUCER Naked Frank Theatre
FUNDED BY Oxleas NHS Trust Pippa Crawford Rafe Beckley Stacey Jane Pettard Dennis Pettard Karen Black Mary Redmond
