The ‘SICK’ play, which has now been seen by over 1,000 children across Morecambe Bay, was performed over three days at the Coronation Hall in Ulverston; Dalton Community Centre and at Ireleth St Peters C of E Primary School in Askam.
The actors use stories, songs and interactive games to engage with the audiences, made up of school children. The show involves inviting the pupils onto the stage and asking them to decide if an illness is a ‘Big Sick’ (when an ambulance is needed) or a ‘Little Sick’ (something that can be treated at home such as a cold).
Mrs Rachael E McFarlane, Headteacher at Ireleth St Peter's C of E Primary School said: “We enjoyed the NHS performance 'Big Sick, Little Sick' which educated the children about how to use the NHS appropriately. It was creative and really engaged all of our children who came away with important key messages.”
The play also concentrates on how to maintain good health through physical activity, healthy eating and preventing the spread of viruses and bacteria. Dr Alison Johnston, GP at Dr Johnston and Partners based at Ulverston Health Centre, said: “I was delighted to attend the NHS SICK play. It was very engaging and the children were all enthralled. It was a fantastic way of teaching children how to use services appropriately and about healthy eating, exercise, rest and relaxation.”
Arabella Onslow, GP from Dalton said: “I thought the play was fabulous; funny, thought-provoking and the children were so engaged. I could see a different relationship being born between the NHS and our future generations.”
The feedback from some of the children showed how using comedy really helped to capture their attention in order to understand important messages about their health. Abi, Year five pupil from Lindal and Marton Primary School said: "The show taught us about the NHS in a funny way!"
The SICK play was commissioned by Better Care Together and was written and performed by Jakki Moore from the Beggars Theatre and Gary Bridgens from the Headzuptheatre group. Jakki Moore from the Beggars Theatre said: "We loved the opportunity to take the "SICK" play out on the road again. Both myself and Gary love this show and are proud to perform it to such warm and open audiences. The children take so much away from the show whilst having fun."