Fitness centre supports mental health show

A local fitness centre has raised almost $1000 for an upcoming production by the Mental Health Theatre Project.

The money raised will go towards costumes for the production "Get Up!" which will be presented at the Peninsula Theatre, Woy Woy, in September.

Curves Woy Woy owner Ms Gael Connop said her staff and members were very proud of their money-raising efforts.

"Mental health affects so many of us in some way," Ms Connop said.

"Whether it is somebody in our family, one of our friends or even ourselves.

"We became involved in the cause because many of our staff and members have been touched by mental illness in some way."

Ms Connop and her staff organised raffles and a Tupperware party to help raise money for the upcoming production.

The production is based on the story The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams and will feature an original script and specially created songs and dance.

Evening performances will be held on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, September 27 to 29, while matinees will be held on Saturday, Monday and Tuesday, September 29 to October 2.

The play will be performed by Ad Hoc Community Theatre, in partnership with Central Coast ARAFMI.

Central Coast ARAFMI is a community-based organisation giving support to family and friends of people with mental illness and promotes health and wellbeing.

The Mental Health Theatre Project includes people who experience mental illness, Central Coast Mental Health Services staff and local theatre professionals.

Clare Graham, 17 Aug 2007