It was with play writer Michael Gray Griffith.
“Michael had written a play, titled Marooned, about the topic of people taking their own lives because he had recently lost a friend himself,” Noel explained.
“So many of the concerns discussed in that interview resonated with me because of the number of lives lost, especially in the rural areas, through mental health and men’s health issues.
“A week or so later I decided to telephone Michael to discuss aspects of the play and the role it could have in assisting people to better understand the problem.
“Michael sent me the script which I read a couple of times before deciding I would look into doing something about it.
“This resulted, shortly after, in my bringing it to the attention of the Yarrawonga Mulwala Rotary Club, of which I am a member.”
Yarrawonga Mulwala Rotary have now backed the play with a generous$5,000 donation and an application to Moira Shire Council has resulted in $2,000 of support.
With this generous assistance the Yarrawonga Town Hall has been booked and the Wolves Theatre Company have been commissioned to perform the play in Yarrawonga and Noel is making the admission free.
“From the start of this project I was determined to offer free admission and free light refreshments which will be served both before, and after, each performance.
“The generosity of the community service bodies, local businesses and caring citizens has allowed this to happen. The support has been fantastic.”
Noel explains that some people may not want to attend the play that tackles such a sensitive issue. “It’s purely an individual’s choice if they want to go or not,” Noel said.
“The play contains references to suicide and other mental health issues and leaves the topic
with less stigma, shame and silence and more people talking.
“If it helps just one person it’s worth it,” he said.
Noel explains the play involves four souls that are marooned in a room in the afterlife.
“They have no connection other than they have all tried but failed to take their own lives.
“They don’t know how they survived but as time passes they begin to yearn to go home and fear that they won’t. A fear and a want that manifests into an insatiable hunger to live. But despite this hunger they are marooned.
“The question is asked in the play; is there is something they must do or address before the gods will send them back? If so, what? The only thing they do have in this room is each other.
“This highly acclaimed play is performed by professional actors and will be a unique opportunity for the people of Yarrawonga Mulwala and the surrounding district to see it for free. I hope many people are able to attend to see this wonderful play,” Noel said
A group committee has been formed to support Noel. If you or your organisation would like to assist Noel you can contact him on 0419 432 789.
Marooned will play on Saturday, November 2 at 7.30pm and on Sunday, November 3 at 2pm at the Yarrawonga Town Hall.
