Playwright puts spotlight on issue of eating disorders

A PLAY exploring eating disorders is being performed in Hull later this month.

Thinspiration, by city-born playwright Dave Windass, was first put on as part of the Humber Mouth literature festival in July and will be shown at Hull Truck Theatre for two consecutive nights beginning on Friday, September 24.

The piece, which also looks at the rise of pro-anorexia websites, charts the life of a young woman, Adele, who is battling body image issues. It stars Rachel Helen Shaw.

Mr Windass said: “We received excellent feedback from audience members who saw the show when it premiered at Humber Mouth in July.

“We were absolutely determined to make sure that the show had a life beyond the single performance and the two shows at Hull Truck’s studio are just a part of those efforts.

“Rachel’s performance was amazing in July and I am delighted that she will reprise a role that she has already made her own.”

He added: “Thinspiration pulls no punches. Eating disorders remain something of a taboo subject because it is very difficult, when you’re in the midst of a battle, to articulate your thoughts and feelings to the people around you. We break that taboo. At the same time, the play is primarily a piece of entertainment.

“For an hour, we’d like to invite people to get inside the mind of this complex young woman and share her journey, which has more than its fair share of highs and lows.”

Both performances will be followed by informal discussions with the writer, director and actor.

Miss Shaw said: “We want to tell Adele’s story and give an insight into the thoughts and feelings of somebody who suffers from an eating disorder.

“I don’t think people fully understand those who have issues with food. I hope the play will explain things and, in a subtle way, raise awareness of the complex nature of eating disorders.”

Director Lee Green added: “Although we are aware that Adele is suffering from an eating disorder, it is important that she is unaware.

“Rachel is able to story-tell whilst portraying a character in the midst of an emotional and physical battle with anorexia with ease and great competence.”

Both shows begin at 7.45pm and tickets cost 5. To book call (01482) 323638.