All the bright MS places
- Paul Genty
- Aug 2
- 2 min read
Critically acclaimed play Bright Places embarks on a UK tour next month, offering an upbeat look at coming to terms with a multiple sclerosis diagnosis.
Following a run at London's Soho Theatre in 2024, this honest, autobiographical show tells the story of growing up in the shadow of a chronic illness, and is inspired by writer Rae Mainwaring learning she had the disease when she was 23.
Though MS isn't the killer it once was, it still reduces life expectancy by up to 10 years and can lead to other debilitating conditions. While most reactions to MS are dread and fear, Rae’s play offers an honest, even joyful and hopeful account of her experience so far.
Set to an electrifying early Noughties pop soundtrack, the play digs into the chaos of a young life interrupted. It explores the conflict between Rae's desire to embrace life and the feelings that shape her worst fears.
Carbon Theatre's production opens with three actors debating how best to tell the story, taking audiences on a darkly-funny story about growing up in the shadow of chronic illness. The cast is Lauren Foster (Holby City, BBC) as Actor A; Aimee Berwick (My Name Is Leon, BBC Two) as Actor B, and Rebecca Holmes as Actor C.
Rae said, "I found one of the most rewarding moments from our last tour was meeting and hearing from our audiences, to learn that it helped them to discuss their illness with others. That was profound. And there were many people without illness who still felt connected and entertained.
"People with MS rarely see themselves represented in an authentic way. This play delves into the complicated, knotty, often contradictory relationship with an illness that is always moving the goal posts."
The show will tour to The Atkinson, Southport (September 30); Hull Truck (October 22-23) and HOME Manchester (October 29-31), among others.
More info and ticket links here
