
All the Wonderful Things
The homeless theater group Walkabout of the Equal Society held its first performance for this year titled 'All the Bright Places' by Duncan MacMillan & Jonny Donahoe, at the Stathmos Theater. The members of the theater group gave their all to present a work that touched on a very sensitive issue, that of depression. Despite the lack of what is commonly referred to as 'normalcy' in the daily lives of these people, their need for creativity did not diminish; on the contrary... it flourished!
Through the eyes of director Panagiotis Dorlis and with this exceptionally beneficial text, we were tenderly transported into the anxiety of children who, with the innocence that distinguishes them, tried to isolate the awkwardness caused by this mental illness and propose an optimistic way to live life. As adults, they recounted the story of their mother who struggled to be happy and how, many years ago, they had started a list of all the wonderful things worth living for to help her.
The play, without seriousness but with a sensitive and humorous approach, supports the idea that when we overcome the fear of exposure, we can see and discuss the major problems we experience.
At the theatrical performance, welcomed by Equal Society President, Mr. Spyros Fremantitis, we were honored by the presence of actress Mrs. Anna Fonsou, Deputy Mayor of Social Solidarity and Civil Society, Mrs. Katerina Gagaki, as well as the Secretary of the Municipal Council of Athens, Mrs. Popi Giannopoulou. Of course, all of you who know and believe in the powers of the homeless theater group and give them strength to continue their efforts were also present!
We thank EVENTORA very much for providing us with their application for ticket reservation for each performance free of charge, as well as Coca Cola Hellenic, which provided us with soft drinks, juices, and water after the show. Finally, a big thank you to the restaurant 'Strofi,' which joyfully provided us with a free dinner for the members of our theater group to celebrate the completion of a creative period!
A Few Words about the Walkabout Theater Group of the Equal Society
The homeless theater group Walkabout of the Equal Society is the only theater group in Greece composed of fellow citizens whose circumstances led them to homelessness and social marginalization. Every day, through drama therapy, the daily collaboration required in rehearsals, and the constant exposure required by the Theater, the members of the theater group try to change their lives and return to what we call normalcy. With heavy burdens on their shoulders, yet they manage. With their difficulties, yet they continue to fight, refusing to allow the word 'homeless' to define them.