Touring the UK this autumn, Bright Places is a joyous and life-affirming show about coming to terms with being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Following a critically acclaimed run at
Soho Theatre in 2024, this deeply honest autobiographical show tells the story of growing up in the shadow of a chronic illness.
Inspired by writer Rae Mainwaring’s own experience of being
diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 23, the play draws on her real-life journey. In response to the limited and often negative portrayals of people living with MS on stage and
screen, Rae Mainwaring’s Bright Places offers an honest yet joyous and hopeful account of her own experience.
Set to an electrifying early noughties pop soundtrack, the show subverts typical illness tropes and digs into the chaos of “a young life interrupted”. It explores the conflict between her desire to embrace life and the internalised ableism that shapes her deepest fears.
Presented by Carbon Theatre, Bright Places opens with three actors debating how best to tell the story, taking audiences on a darkly funny autobiographical story about growing up in the
shadow of chronic illness.
Bright Places is at the New Wolsey Theatre 20th October 7pm – the performance runs for 75 minutes with no interval.
Age Guidance 12+
Book ticket online at the New Wolsey Website or call the box office on 01473 295900
This production is supported using public funding through Arts Council England.
