Work in Progress

Sometimes, everyday questions turn into existential crises for Jess as she struggles to manage her mental health; Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety and Depression. However, through humour and a passion for dance, Jess begins to learn how to feel comfortable with feeling uncomfortable.

Work in Progress is a warm light-hearted solo show about being Scouse, dancing to Britney Spears and sharing stories of hope. Jess welcomes you on this journey with her and apologises to her Nan for swearing.

The show is currently supported by Sheffield Mind sheffieldmind.co.uk/ and Theatre Deli and is funded graciously by the Spirit of the Rainbow Heron Fund (spirit-of-the-rainbow-heron.com/), Space2Breathe and Arts Council England. It was also developed and supported by the Third Angel Mentoring Scheme.

Performed by Jess Gibson
Produced by Louise Delmege and Joseph Willis
A/V Design and Operation by Aaron Mears

About Jess:
Jess moved to Sheffield as a positive step in her recovery from a mental health breakdown in 2014. Since then she has worked in the North with Third Angel, Sheffield Theatres, SheFest, Quarantine, Hazard Festival, UnShut Festival and Theatre Delicatessen. Her approach is inter-disciplinary as she merges movement, dance and comedy to create meaningful work with a social impact.

Previous Reviews for Work in Progress:
Rachael Walton, Artistic Director of Third Angel: “Jess deals with the themes of anxiety & borderline personality disorder in a charming, honest, funny and sensitive way”

Jo Eckersley, Deputy Managing Director of Sheffield Flourish: “For people who don’t know much about mental health, the play is a great way to gain understanding. For those who do, the lines will be all the more moving”

Audience Member: “It was thoughtful and powerful and anyone dealing with mental health issues themselves or their family should see it.”

Audience Member: “Open honest discussion about mental health. Non-stigmatising. Funny. Very relatable, entertaining and inspirational for fellow sufferers.”