Strength, struggle and sisterhood: Exploring mental health in The Wolves
The Wolves, a co-production between Geordie Theatre and Imago Theatre, presented Sarah DeLappe’s fast-paced and fiercely honest play at the Segal Centre for the Performing Arts in November. Directed by Krista Jackson and Jimmy Blais, this one-act show unfolds entirely on a soccer field and provides a glimpse into the lives of nine young women as they confront personal struggles and pursue their dreams.
DeLappe’s writing reveals that the play wasn’t just about the game on the field – it’s about the game playing out inside their heads. In The Wolves, the depiction of young women’s growing pains and mental health is both raw and deeply moving. The all-female cast, coupled with the gritty and unfiltered language that captures the competitive spirit of a high school soccer team, created a unique authenticity for the audience to enjoy.
A standout character in the production was #7, played by Darragh Mondoux. The character is a master at using humour to avoid and deflect her grief. While her comedic nature makes her teammates laugh, her jokes function as a barrier, so she doesn’t have to acknowledge her pain. The isolation that accompanies mental health challenges can be mitigated by a strong support system and the presence of meaningful friendships, a perspective reflected in Mondoux’s own experiences. “The Wolves shows that being part of a team, part of a sisterhood does not mean living in perfect harmony or a like-minded clique of clones, but rather how necessary a diverse and intimate group is the best way to grow and learn and discover yourself at a young age.”
Near the end of the play, a particularly poignant portrayal of mental health challenges was presented when the team’s goalie, played by Quinn Dooley, experienced a mental breakdown that highlighted the pressures associated with anxiety and depression. Throughout the majority of the play, her character maintained a reserved demeanor and didn’t rely on extensive dialogue like her teammates. Her quiet struggle powerfully illustrates the reality that mental illness frequently remains invisible to those around someone. This pivotal moment of vulnerability resonated deeply with the audience, serving as a reminder that the younger generation often carry their burdens in silence.
The Wolves was a remarkable triumph, showcasing sharp and quick-witted dialogue, along with dynamic performances from a diverse cast. It offers a glimpse into the tumultuous journey of adolescence, where each day presents new challenges and victories, all of which can be navigated through the understanding that you are not alone. The impact of mental health awareness was shared by Mondoux, “I hope that young people dealing with mental health challenges can see their day-to-day survival reflected in the anxious characters, the know-it-all characters, the goofy characters and the angry characters. None of the girls in The Wolves are caricatures, but they are recognizable figures from 21st century adolescence.”
Keep up to date with Geordie and Imago at geordie.ca and imagotheatre.ca.
