The ANANSi WEB SHOW

"A stage show featuring drama, music and poetry

generated and performed by users of the psychiatric services."

The Anansi Web Show is a concept developed by Devon Marston, a user of the psychiatric services and an employee of Sound Minds.

Anansi stories are folk tales rooted in the history of the Caribbean and Ghana. The adventures of Anansi the sly spider have a moral dimension retained in this modern day update.

Anansi epitomises the outsider and the Anansi Web Show highlights the treatment of minorities, and in particular communicates the experiences of black people in the psychiatric system. The Web is both a support network and a sticky trap. Anansi himself challenges and engages, drawing the audience into the storyline in a personal way, breaking down barriers.

The Benefits

ENGAGES

black service users estranged from mainstream services.

IMPROVES

self confidence through creativity and achievement and the affirmation of cultural heritage.

HIGHLIGHTS

issues relating to the psychiatric treatment of black people.

COUNTERACTS

negative images of mental ill health by showcasing the talents of service users.

REDUCES

ignorance and fear of mental illness, contributing to health education and the integration of people with mental health problems in the locality.

IMPROVES

the ethnic sensitivity of mainstream services.

BROADENS

understanding of black culture.

EDUCATES

service users in aspects of video and stagecraft including training in transferable computer and design skills.

ENABLES

people to find a voice.

STRENGTHENS

links between participating community organisations, within and outwith mental health.

Pages: [1], [2]