Dance performance in city centre to explore mental health

Witness This by Company Chameleon is described as a moving and emotional portrayal of how loved ones cope when mental health problems take hold of someone close. The dance piece tells the story of choreographer, Kevin Edward Turner, following his journey and struggle with bipolar.

Athletic lifts, dynamic movements and moments of sensitivity combine to create a view of mental health that is touching, funny and even, at times, absurd.

Featuring a melting pot of dance styles and a rich mix of movement techniques, Witness This provides a moving and original interpretation of mental health illness, and sees dance theatre take on a real and relevant issue, which affects one in four people each year.

Performances take place at 1pm and 4pm today (October 10) at Jubilee Square.

Kevin Edward Turner, choreographer of the piece and co-artistic director of Company Chameleon, said: "Witness draws upon my own experience of Bipolar and the impact it has had on me and those closest to me. The work embodies what I witnessed both real and imaginary in my ill health, and also what my loved ones witnessed whilst I was ill.

"In making this work, I want to contribute towards the debate and understanding of mental health issues, and challenge preconceived notions of what is still in some ways, a taboo subject. I would also like people who are struggling out there to realise that things can change and it is possible to find happiness and health again; that it can be managed. If I can get better so can anyone and I hope the work encourages people to share, talk and have a better understanding of their mental health."