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Your chance to attend town centre documentary spotlighting 'unheard male voices' in mental health

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Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Global performers and local talent are coming together at the Buttermarket to create a new documentary addressing men's mental health challenges in Suffolk – and you're invited to join them.

Why it matters: The collaboration between This Is Ipswich and Scripted Development aims to effect change in how men are "seen and understood" in society, focusing on creating safe spaces for open discussion about mental health.

Raph of Scripted Development and Ramon Bradshaw Logan of Ipswich Community Media
Raph of Scripted Development and Ramon Bradshaw Logan of Ipswich Community Media

The details:

  • Filming will take place on Thursday, 30 January in the former Superdry store at the Buttermarket.

  • The event will feature guest speakers answering questions and live performances, including poetry, spoken word and music.

  • International performers, including Jake Beautyman, who has performed DJ sets in Berlin and Brazil, and filmmaker Kashif O'Connor, known for his work at London and Prague film festivals, will participate.

  • Members of the public are invited to join the audience at 14:30, with filming to begin at 15:00.

  • The event will finish at 19:00.

What they're saying: "Our collaborative mental health doc will help tell the story of many all too often unheard male voices. It will be seen in the spaces, places and faces of the masses to help effect change for how we, men, are seen and understood," says Raph of Scripted Development.

For context: This Is Ipswich has established itself in the local community over the past six months, producing short reel videos featuring conversations with townspeople.

The bigger picture: This Is Ipswich CEO Sarah Tieck says the documentary is part of a longer-term solution to societal issues, aiming to "educate young men on how to communicate and express how they're feeling without fear of ridicule".

Raph of Scripted Development
Raph of Scripted Development

What to look out for: The documentary will focus on several key areas:

  • Encouraging positive physical health

  • Guidance on personal presentation

  • Identifying safe spaces for open discussion in the local community

Supporting the event: Local businesses are contributing, with Fresh Start Charity providing furniture and Harvest Moon Vegan Cafe supplying refreshments for audience members.

The bottom line: The project represents a collaborative effort to address men's mental health through creative expression and open dialogue, bringing together local organisations and international talent in the heart of Ipswich.

Head over to the former Superdry store at 14:30 to get involved.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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New Wolsey Theatre calls for nominations to honour Ipswich's everyday heroes

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Ipswich residents are invited to nominate their personal heroes for recognition at the New Wolsey Theatre's free community event on Saturday, 31 May.

Why it matters: The superhero-themed event will spotlight everyday people making positive impacts in the Ipswich community through a new art piece and various celebrations.

The New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich
The New Wolsey Theatre in IpswichOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The details: The Big Afternoon runs from 2-4pm at the New Wolsey Theatre, featuring:

  • Live entertainment

  • Cosplay characters

  • Retro arcade games

  • Face painting

  • Arts and crafts

  • Opportunities to go on stage

What they're saying: Tony Casement, Head of Creative Communities at the New Wolsey Theatre, said: "The Big Afternoon has something for everyone so come along to our family friendly, free mini festival and join the fun. There's music and dance, art activities to get involved in and the chance to meet your heroes during our superhero walk about. Tell us who your heroes are so we can celebrate many of the amazing people who are making a difference in Ipswich every day."

The Big Afternoon 2025 at New Wolsey Theatre poster
The Big Afternoon 2025 at New Wolsey TheatreNew Wolsey Theatre

How to nominate: Residents can submit nominations:

The bigger picture: The theatre is seeking stories about local champions who have helped others, from supportive neighbours and inspiring teachers to healthcare workers and loyal friends.

How to attend: While the event is free, the theatre requests attendees book tickets to help estimate numbers:

The bottom line: The family-friendly event offers Ipswich residents a chance to celebrate individuals who make a difference in their community while enjoying a variety of free entertainment activities.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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