On May 25th, 2023, the BC Schizophrenia Society hosted a professionally staged reading of Eye of the Storm – a play in one act at Vancouver General Hospital’s Paetzold Auditorium. Eye of the Storm is a timeless and powerful script written by Peter Zednik, and a story about a family impacted by Schizophrenia which still resonates with audiences two decades later.
The event commenced with a few words from BCSS CEO Faydra Aldridge. Faydra thanked everyone for coming and showed her appreciation to all the supporters, the BCSS team, and the event’s sponsor, Otsuka-Lundbeck Alliance, whose generous contribution made the event possible.
Jennifer Whiteside, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, warmly welcomed our remarkable guests and provided an update on the work of the ministry and government.
Our guests were then introduced to award-winning director Jane Heyman, who set the stage for a captivating performance from actors Hiro Kanagawa (Ted, Customer, Doctor, Policeman), Elizabeth Barrett (Marlie), Agnes Tong (Marlie’s Adult Voice), Jill Daum (Nina), and Cameron Peal (Daniel and Phil). Stage Manager Carol Chrisjohn ensured the production ran smoothly.
“The participation of these Artists is arranged by permission of Canadian Actors’ Equity Association under the provisions of the Dance•Opera•Theatre Policy.” “Produced with the co-operation of the UBCP/ACTRA.”
Please click the video below to watch the one-act play recording of Eye of the Storm.
Following the reading, BCSS Foundation Board Member Margareta Dovgal moderated a fantastic panel discussion with the event’s panellists: Peter Zednik (playwright), Oliver O’Dea, Hardeep Thind (Vancouver Coastal Regional Manager), and Dr. Mahesh Menon. They engaged in an insightful conversation by discussing the play and its relevance to the real-world experiences of those affected by schizophrenia.
Please click the video below to watch a recording of the Eye of the Storm panel discussion.
The event ended with Faydra thanking everyone for attending the event.
Don’t miss out on any BCSS events! Sign up for our email newsletter!
To learn more about becoming a member of BC Schizophrenia Society (click here).
