The Royal Court Theatre has announced it will have mental health first aiders on standby during performances of its new play, Who Cares, which explores the emotional toll of the NHS. The play, based on interviews with NHS staff, is set to run from 10 April to 16 May ahead of the general election.
Writer Michael Wynne spent 18 months interviewing doctors, nurses, paramedics, managers and politicians to create the verbatim script. The immersive production will transform the theatre into a hospital setting, with audiences moving through waiting rooms, wards and gardens.
Wynne told the BBC he hopes the play will 'make people think in a different way' about the NHS. He noted that some interviewees were cautious, with one writing 'don't stitch me up' on a release form. The play aims to give 'unheard perspectives on the past, present and possible future of our NHS'.
Royal Court artistic director Vicky Featherstone called the play 'timely and thrilling', adding that the NHS debate will be a key election issue. The production involves three directors due to its scale and ambition.
The theatre will provide mental health support for audiences, acknowledging the potentially distressing content. Who Cares is part of a season that also includes Gary Owen's Violence and Son and Debbie Tucker Green's Hang.
