Lifeline Productions, founded by Joel Ehrenpreis two years ago, is expanding its mission to raise awareness about mental health issues through storytelling and theater. The organization initially gained attention with ‘Clowns Like Me,’ a one-man play where Ehrenpreis’s son, Scott, shares his experiences with various mental health challenges, including OCD and bipolar disorder. This production successfully ran in Sarasota and off-Broadway, highlighting the realities of living with mental illness.
On May 15, Lifeline Productions will debut its second production, ‘Entangled: Controlled Chaos and the Voice in my Head.’ Created by Will Luera and co-directed by Luera and his wife, Maria Schaedler-Luera, this two-person show builds on the foundation of ‘Clowns Like Me’ by exploring deeper themes of self-reflection and discovery related to mental health.
Ehrenpreis emphasizes the importance of sharing true stories to foster conversation about mental illness and reduce stigma. ‘Clowns Like Me’ served as a catalyst for Lifeline’s growth, allowing the organization to explore a broader range of narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Luera, who has extensive experience in improvisation and theater, developed ‘Entangled’ while reflecting on his own life experiences and the therapeutic benefits of theater. He noted that improv has helped him cope with family stress and has been a means of personal expression. The script for ‘Entangled’ evolved from discussions with students who described theater as being more beneficial than therapy, reinforcing the idea that creative outlets can play a vital role in mental health recovery.
The production aims to invite audiences to confront and express emotions that are often suppressed. Luera explains that theater allows individuals to embrace their vulnerabilities, as performers must present their authentic selves on stage. This act of sharing one’s story can create a sense of connection and understanding among viewers.
Maria Schaedler-Luera brings her background as an educator and artist to Lifeline Productions, focusing on the organization’s educational and developmental programs. She is working with Scott Ehrenpreis to empower him to lead workshops that utilize storytelling and theater as tools for personal growth and community engagement. Schaedler-Luera has been conducting monthly workshops for trauma survivors and integrates mindfulness practices into her teaching, demonstrating the intersection of art and mental health advocacy.
Through these initiatives, Lifeline Productions aims to produce a new mental health-related performance each year while expanding its outreach through workshops and community programs. The organization seeks to engage more individuals in conversations about mental health, fostering a supportive environment that encourages self-expression and healing.
‘Entangled’ will run from May 15 to May 25 at Cook Theatre in Sarasota, with general admission tickets priced at $30. Each performance will include a talkback session, allowing audiences to discuss the themes presented in the show and further explore the impact of mental health narratives.
For more information on tickets and upcoming events, visit lifelinproductionsinc.org/entangled-tickets.
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