Timed to Suicide Prevention Awareness Month this September, KOTA Productions presents the world premiere of Sound Mind, a new musical about teens navigating mental health struggles, playing from Thursday, September 17 – Sunday, September 20 at Urban Stages. The show aims to help these teens discover the power of sharing their experiences without judgment, allowing them to feel seen, heard and supported. Sound Mind features music and lyrics by Ray Andersen and book and lyrics by Sheryl Berk.
Sound Mind features an original score blending pop, hip hop and rock music with soulful ballads, illuminating the characters’ inner lives, while moments of humor balance the intensity and reflect the messy, nonlinear journey of healing. The musical grew from Andersen’s own personal experience. A close family member spent time in a mental health treatment facility similar to the one depicted in the musical, giving him a firsthand look at the struggles teens face and the impact on the people who love them.
Set inside an inpatient mental health facility, Sound Mind follows a diverse group confronting depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, social phobia and other struggles. Over 12 weeks of group therapy, music becomes a way to communicate when words fail. Sound Mind is produced by Laura Luc and directed by Avery Pedell, with music direction by Jack Richman and choreography by Adara Allen.
Kids of the Arts (KOTA) is a New York City-based nonprofit performing arts organization founded by Laura Luc that provides professional training and performance opportunities for young artists.
For tickets and additional information click here.
Urban Stages is located at 259 West 30th Street, New York, NY
