Second Step Players

Who are the Second Step Players?

Coffeehouse performance of System Mental Illness, sung to the tune of Hotel California

The Second Step Players is a theater troupe comprised of actors, writers, artists, production personnel, musicians, poets and comedians who have psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression (including bipolar), obsessive-compulsive disorder and disassociative identity disorders. More than 50 mental health consumers and 25 volunteers make up its ranks.

Why the Second Step Players?

The Second Step Players write and perform original comedy and drama about the experience of being labeled with a mental illness. Such open honesty in front of an audience is empowering and plays an important part in the recovery process.

The healing energy of laughter provides a forum for players and audience members to engage in a dialogue about the myths surrounding psychiatric illnesses. Furthermore, the troupe players serve as an inspirational role model for other people with psychiatric disabilities.

A scene from My Big Fat Freak Wedding

Where do the Second Step Players perform?

We have produced high-quality, professional theater and music since 1985:

  • Every year, the Players produce a full-scale show at the internationally renowned Eugene O'Neill Theatre Center in Waterford, CT.
  • The Players perform more than 20 touring shows and workshops throughout Connecticut, New England, New York and Pennsylvania.
  • We've even made our way down to Baltimore, Md., over to Omaha, Neb., and way, way down to Austin and San Antonio, Texas.

Audiences include high school and college students, the general public and mental health consumers, family and staff.

To find out more or to book the The Second Step Players for a performance, call Becca Atkins at (860) 887-0014.