Following a critically acclaimed run at Soho Theatre in 2024, Carbon Theatre’s Bright Places will tour venues across the UK this autumn, running from 26 September to 31 October 2026.
Written by Rae Mainwaring and inspired by her own experience of being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the age of 23, the 75-minute production explores the realities of growing up in the shadow of chronic illness.
Created in response to the limited and often negative portrayals of people living with MS on stage and screen, Bright Places combines honesty, humour and hope. Set against an early noughties pop soundtrack, the play challenges familiar illness narratives while examining the tension between embracing life and confronting internalised ableism.
The production opens with three actors debating the best way to tell the story before taking audiences through a darkly funny autobiographical journey. The cast includes Lauren Foster, Aimee Berwick and Rebecca Holmes.
Writer Rae Mainwaring said: “I found one of the most rewarding moments from our last tour, was meeting and hearing from our audiences. To learn that they felt seen or that it helped them find a language to discuss their illness with others, was so profound. As well as those without illness in their lives who still felt connected and entertained. It’s such a joy to once again put those experiences on stage, in a playful and hopeful way. People with MS rarely see themselves represented in an authentic way. This play delves into the complicated, knotty often contradictory relationship with an illness that is always moving the goal posts.”
Supported by public funding through Arts Council England, the tour will visit Nottingham Playhouse, The Atkinson in Southport, Belgrade Theatre Coventry, Chelmsford Theatre, Arena Theatre Wolverhampton, New Wolsey Theatre Ipswich, Hull Truck Theatre, The Place Bedford and HOME Manchester.
The production is recommended for audiences aged 12+ and contains swearing, strobes, flashing lights, references to illness and medical procedures, as well as themes of disability, ableism, distress and upset.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
