DREading It

DREading It tells the story of Leyton Orient FC supporter Roy, who at 50 is looking forward to starting his new job, which means a brighter future for him and his family. But he’s not so much looking forward to the medical examination his new employers have arranged. He’s fit and healthy, so just why is he dreading it? Bob – Roy’s football mate, thinks he can put his finger on it…

What follows is a frank, open and often hilarious discussion on the real fears that men have about health issues – and the reasons they might be afraid to do anything about them – interspersed with a smattering of engaging football chat. DREading It aims to ignite similar discussions among its audience and encourage men to get regular health checks.

Written by Clifford Oliver, DREading It is a play covering adult topics, devised and informed as a result of personal experiences of prostate cancer and the issues surrounding it, including the physical, mental and emotional challenges faced by men when having to confront health concerns.

DREading It was originally commissioned in 2019 by the Epping Forest Public Health Community Grant Fund, with a pilot performance delivered in partnership with Leyton Orient Trust. The play and discussion is now available for delivery to local community groups.

“Incidentally one of the Walking Footballers who attended the last performance was so inspired that he got checked out and sure enough he had prostate cancer – in the early stages – and is on the road to recovery. He wanted me to thank you for ‘saving his life’.” Neil Taylor – Chief Executive, Leyton Orient Trust, Leyton Orient Football Club

If you’d like to talk to us about how to engage your audience on issues that really matter, please contact nita@arctheatre.com or call 07483 342158.