An amateur theatre group is breaking new ground by employing a wellbeing adviser to support its cast in the production of The Girl on the Train, a popular thriller with intense themes. The play, based on Paula Hawkins’ best-selling novel, features dark content such as domestic abuse and alcoholism, as the lead character Rachel grapples with the mystery of a missing woman, Megan.
Creative director Davina Beegoo-Price, from Sharnbrook Mill Theatre in Bedfordshire, explained the decision to introduce a wellbeing adviser. “I wanted to take extra measures to ensure our cast and crew were supported and safe,” she said, acknowledging the sensitive nature of the material.
Emily Dignan, who plays Megan, said having a wellbeing adviser is “mostly unheard of” in amateur productions, but believes it should become standard practice in the arts. “This is the first time I’ve come across this wellbeing role, and it’s such a brilliant asset,” the 21-year-old said. Dignan noted that The Girl on the Train deals with complex themes “that could trigger people but also spread awareness,” making the extra support invaluable.
“We’ve had wellbeing check-ins with Chris, and it made me feel seen, supported, and valued as an actor. Sometimes, you’re just expected to ‘get on with it,’” she added.
The wellbeing adviser, Christopher Duncombe-Cooper, is a trained wellbeing coach who volunteered for the role after falling in love with the show. He explained that it is rare for amateur theatre to incorporate wellness practices. “You don’t hear of it locally. I’ve done a lot of shows, and at no point has wellbeing been introduced into the structure,” he said. “This feels like we’re on the cutting edge of introducing what I see as a vital role.”
Beegoo-Price emphasized the importance of creating a “safe working environment” for the cast, especially given the intensity of the production. “The Girl on the Train is a fantastic modern thriller that deals with a lot of sensitive issues many of us have likely experienced, either first-hand or second-hand,” she said. To ensure both authenticity and safety, she also brought in experts in wellbeing and fight choreography.
Cast member Gordon Ritchie, who plays Tom, used his experience in fight choreography to train the actors involved in violent scenes. “Violence, especially domestic violence, is such a sensitive area. We wanted to include it in the show but make sure it was handled safely and sensitively,” Beegoo-Price explained. Ritchie provided extensive training to those involved in physical scenes, and the entire cast participated in workshops to understand what to expect.
Co-directed by Michael Horne and adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel, The Girl on the Train runs from September 24-28 at Sharnbrook Mill Theatre.
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