Bright Places, 22.11.24
Bright Places at the Attenborough Arts Centre
Rae Mainwaring’s Bright Places is an autobiographical emotional journey into the life of a woman navigating the challenges of living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Through a cast of three vibrant performers, this production captures the raw vulnerability of illness while celebrating resilience and joy.
MS, a neurological degenerative condition characterised by periods of relapse and remission, takes centre stage as the play examines its impact on Louise, a character based on the playwright herself. The title, Bright Places, holds dual significance: it refers to the white lesions visible on MRI scans that signify MS damage and also to the metaphorical “bright places” where Rae retreats to cope—fantastical escapes of disco, glitter, and early-2000s pop music.
The innovative casting brings Rae to life in a unique way: the three actors—Lauren Foster, Aimee Berwick, and Rebecca Holmes—each take turns embodying Rae. Sometimes they perform simultaneously, seamlessly blending or competing for the limelight. At other times, they portray Rae’s friends, doctors, romantic partners, or even her misfiring neurons, personified in a fabulous pink feather boa as the mischievous “Myleene.” This shared portrayal is more than a theatrical gimmick; it emphasises the fractured, multifaceted nature of Rae’s experience, as well as the communal strength needed to process it.
Foster, Berwick, and Holmes make a magnetic ensemble. Their chemistry allows for playful, deeply empathetic storytelling. Whether rotating roles or working in perfect harmony, their synergy feels both natural and magical, embodying the script’s mix of wit, hope, and stark honesty.
Under Tessa Walker’s direction, Bright Places thrives on its simplicity and resourcefulness; a pink flight case reveals balloons, confetti, and whatever else the story requires. This minimalist approach draws focus to the actors and the narrative, letting the energy of the performance shine through. The early-2000s setting, captured through music and costumes, evokes Rae’s life at 24, when she was first diagnosed—an era of dating, dancing, and big dreams interrupted by MS.
Creative Captioning and embedded Audio Description are seamlessly integrated into the production, making it accessible for all. These features not only enhance inclusivity but also feel like an organic part of the storytelling.
As a chronically ill person myself, I never expected my experience to be articulated so well; the shock of a diagnosis, the grief of losing who you should have been, the fear of what’s to come. While Rae doesn’t shy away from those negatives in her writing, there’s no moping or dwelling, the pace skipping along nicely in the 75 minutes, still holding out hope for the future.
Bright Places is a striking blend of humour, vulnerability, and hope. With its innovative staging, accessible design, and extraordinary cast, it’s both a tribute to the resilience of those living with chronic illness and a reminder of the beauty that can emerge even in life’s most challenging moments.
For more information about Bright Places and its touring schedule, visit Carbon Theatre’s website: https://www.carbontheatre.org.uk/bright-places
