THE ZACHARY GEDDIS BREAK THE SILENCE TRUST

The story of Romeo and Juliet contains depictions of suicide, moments of violence and references to drug use. If you have been affected by any of the themes of the show, we encourage you to speak to someone for information, advice, and support. We have partnered with the Zachary Geddis – Break the Silence Trust (ZGBTST) to allow our audiences to have a space to discuss any of these themes with a trained professional. The ZGBTST offers a range of services such as counselling, workshops, and mentoring; all services are free of charge and completely confidential.

over 50% of adult mental health disorders develop before the age of 18

78% of teens believe there is still a stigma around mental health illness

44% of young people have experienced a mental health problem

24% would not feel comfortable talking about their mental health with anyone

Studies highlight 12 main early suicide warning signs and all 12 are seen throughout the play at various different times

The story of Romeo and Juliet, although set in the 14th Century, has an underlying theme of mental health illness which can still relate to many in 2023. By raising the discussion of the events that take place within the play we can help further understand the complexness of mental health illness, the impact of suicide and the process of bereavement.

Many symptoms of a mental health issue can go unseen, which makes it hard for others to understand. Unlike a physical illness, no two people experiencing mental anguish are the same, therefore as well as raising awareness, we must also express an understanding, build on our knowledge and together promote individualism when it comes to mental health illnesses. The rate of suicide in Northern Ireland is 25% higher than that of the rest of the UK, as a young community we can make ourselves hyper aware of the signs that someone we love may be in a dark place, how we can talk and listen to their needs as well as where is the most appropriate place to reach out to for help. One of the main causes of mental health deterioration is bereavement, losing someone you love can make it hard to continue each day without them. ZGBTST was built from loss and one of the key things that has helped me in my journey through bereavement is the comfort that I receive through helping others. Throughout the play, there are a multitude of ‘warning signs’ and examples of characters recognising something was wrong. What we can learn from this is to never ignore the signs, ask the questions and be a support system for the people in our lives that are going through hardship.

The Zachary Geddis Break the Silence Trust is proud to have been able to contribute to the Lyric Theatres modern adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. Founded after the loss of Zachary Geddis, a creative mind and lover of the arts, this collaboration is something we will never forget. Dedicated to the memory of an amazing human being, ZGBTST aims to raise mental health awareness and decrease the stigma surrounding suicide. Founder, Yasmin – Zachary’s Sister along with her Mum and Dad identified the gaps in the current Northern Ireland Mental Health Services and through voluntary means, works with the local community to achieve equal, individualised and appropriate mental health provision for all. Having opened the North Coast’s first community-run mental health centre, ZGBTST provides free, immediate and professional mental health services through mentoring programmes, counselling sessions, community education and statutory collaborations.

Yasmin Geddis ZGBTST Founder

YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ZACHARY, ZGBTST AND WHAT WE ARE DOING TO IGNITE CHANGE BY VISITING WWW.ZGBTST.ORG OR FOLLOWING OUR JOURNEY ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Christmas At The Lyric

Follow the breadcrumbs to the Lyric Theatre for Christmas 2023 where Hansel and Gretel will take you on a magical adventure through the enchanted forest.

Written by Tara Lynne O’Neill

FRI 24 NOV—SUN 31 DEC 2023

Book now at lyrictheatre.co.uk

Lyric Theatre On Tour

Returning by hugely popular demand, the Lyric Theatre’s sell-out production Good Vibrations débuts at the Grand Opera House. This staged musical version of the award-winning movie charts the life of Belfast punk legend Terri Hooley, a radical, rebel and music-lover.

TUE 9 - SAT 20 MAY 2023

Book now at goh.co.uk