Strings Attached
Created by Dahlia Lesh | Produced by Lesh Productions | Origin: Ottawa, Canada
LabO
Show Details
Strings Attached is a heart-wrenching one-act play exploring mental illness and the extremes one will go to escape its suffocating grip. The story focuses on the complicated relationship between two characters: one is a young woman mourning her youthful innocence while struggling through her torturous present, and the other is an embodiment of her complex, fractured mind.
Content Notes
- MATURE LANGUAGE: there is some use of foul language.
- SEXUAL CONTENT: there are two lines in the play that refer to sexual assault.
- VIOLENCE: there is a moment when one character pushes the other down in a violent matter.
- MENTAL HEALTH: there is discussion of suicide, eating disorders, trauma, self harm, anxiety and depression.
Showtimes
- Thursday, June 129:00pm
- Saturday, June 144:00pm
- Sunday, June 155:00pm
- Tuesday, June 1710:00pm
- Friday, June 20Sold Out
- Saturday, June 215:30pm
Based on true events, “Strings Attached” is a powerful one-act drama that explores the painful realities of living with mental illness and the desperate lengths one might go to in an attempt to escape its suffocating grip. This emotionally charged, two-character play centers on a young woman’s journey from the carefree joy of youth to an overwhelming descent into darkness. As she mourns the loss of the child she once was, she grapples with the harsh reality of mental illness and the toll it has taken on her. The story is told through her turbulent bond with a haunting figure—an embodiment of her fractured mind. This persona brings her internal struggles to life, transforming the invisible battle of mental illness into a tangible presence. Through their interactions, the play explores how mental illness impacts every part of her existence, manifesting as both a literal and metaphorical force she cannot escape. “Strings Attached” shines a light on the complexities of battling multiple mental illnesses, which culminate in a severe eating disorder. It reveals the challenges of living with illnesses that are often misunderstood and invisible to the world, yet unbearably real for the individual. In its unflinching portrayal of mental health, “Strings Attached” asks the audience to reflect on the deep, silent struggles people face in their own minds—struggles that are often hidden behind a mask of normalcy. It is a poignant exploration of human vulnerability, offering a powerful reminder of the importance of confronting and understanding the painful, often invisible aspects of the human experience.
16 responses to “Strings Attached”
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Go see this breathtaking show. I was blown away. At times it is tough to watch but so important and there is also a sense of hope.
Just WOW! This impressively thoughtful and courageous show takes the audience on an emotional journey through the darkness and pull of mental illness. Dahlia Lesh (author, director and actor) brilliantly depicts the “monster” in her head as she fights to overcome her inner demons. This is a must see!
A brilliantly raw and emotional piece about the monster that lives within us all. The actors are extremely talented and have a clear bond on and off the stage. A simply designed and staged piece that focuses on the message it’s trying to convey.
This original show is everything art is meant to be. It’s raw, vulnerable, moving, relatable, and full of heart. The writing, staging and performances are absolutely top notch! Congratulations to the team for making a truly beautiful play and for establishing a sense of community with the whole audience. I STRONGLY encourage Strings Attached to consider touring and bringing this important message to more people. Thank you.
A brilliantly crafted story brought to life by outstanding performances!
Bravo!
An very well-written story with amazing performances that will move you to tears!
Somehow the portion before the final commentary didn’t move me. I’m not sure what has been the cause. Maybe the immediate barrage of the strong expression made it easier to just detach from what was happening, rather than let it in.
In the end, it was great to witness the miracle that actually had place!
Strings Attached is a powerful play about a girl and her inner monster. It offers a raw, honest look at mental health and the failures of a broken system. The acting is exceptional! Emotional, believable, and deeply impactful. A must-see!