The main program is a musical-theatre presentation of a family's struggle with an eating disorder and a facilitated talkback. Before I had seen it, I trusted it had good value as a teaching piece, but as a professional singer-actor I was skeptical about it being good theatre. I was so blown away I immediately offered my services to the organization in whatever capacity they needed and found myself part of the presentation and now also on the Board. I have been witness the amazing impact we can have. The more I learn about Normal In Schools, the more impressed I am with every aspect--the vision, the leadership, the organization. I am proud and honored to be part of it.
As the mother of a 16 year old daughter, it's vital that I understand the specifics of eating disorders - what to watch for, how to help. Normal presented this all to me in an educational and creative way that allowed me to understand and empathize. ED was an issue that I only knew about through the news, which doesn't paint the full picture. It also is a venue that speaks directly to my daughter, which is not always easy to do! Through witnessing the characters go through the challenges of ED, our whole family was able to truly feel as though we understood the issue. Also, the talk back sessions after the performance provided a way for us to ask additional questions and receive referals if needed.
Normal In Schools is an amazing experience lived through the very real life scenario of a family dealing with a daughter/sister's eating disorder. This powerful musical, followed up by a talk-back with professional medical experts on eating disorders, combines the power of ED education through theater with the clinical expertise necessary to help heal the mind and body. In addition, the organization is in the process of putting together a DVD of the musical to be used in conjunction with a high school health class curriculum. There are very deep rooted psychological issues associated with eating disorders and this organization is helping to spread the word that there are many people out there suffering from the same conditions and by becoming aware of the warning signs and working through them with an open mind, great successes can be obtained.