Recent Project

"Matt" written & directed by Peter Dewar helped develop a storytelling piece of theatre with the support of Arts Council funding.

This Research and Development (R&D) project took place at St George's Theatre in Great Yarmooth and aimed to incorporate real-life accounts from the people of Great Yarmouth.

Peter has put his struggles with mental health into a new play that was premiered at St George’s Theatre, Great Yarmouth in July 2024.

"Matt" reflects on a man's battle with depression, anxiety and addiction, and explores themes of resilience, hope and the transformative power of community support.

“The story not only mirrors my own quest for healing but also examines the universal pursuit of hope in times of adversity,” said Dewar, who lives in Great Yarmouth. “Sharing your mental health challenges can be very cathartic, and I hope that Matt will help others to realise that it’s possible to overcome the battles they face.”

Attendance was on a pay-what-you-like basis and all proceeds went to Northgate Hospital, which Dewar said played a crucial role in his recovery. He directs the play, which has a cast of five professional actors, all from Norfolk. It has been funded by the Arts Council. £1,750 was raised!!

“It was an experience that gave me a much-needed sense of purpose and community. This evolved into a passion for stagecraft, and ultimately led me to write and direct Matt,” he said. “My own story is testament to the power of the arts in fostering recovery and personal growth, and I hope the play will offer hope not only to people who are going through their own struggles but also to the family and friends who are supporting them.

“It’s not a sob story. It’s a piece of work through which I want to inspire and help people.”

Debbie Thompson, theatre director at St George’s, said: “This is an important play about a subject that is rarely portrayed on stage in such a raw and personal way. With problems surrounding mental health issues being discussed more openly than ever I think the theatre world needs to play its part in reflecting those issues.”

Dewar has created a Facebook group, www.facebook.com/groups/mattgy - that he said is a safe space for people to share their experiences, offer support and build a community focused on well-being and mutual encouragement.

Peter collaborated with several organisations, including St George's Theatre, The Seagull Theatre in Lowestoft, Freshly Greated in Great Yarmouth, Reprezent Project, Norfolk County Council, Community Access Trust, Time & Tide Musuem and the Steam House Coffee.