A powerful new original audio drama series created on the Isle of Man hopes to raise awareness for local charities by touching on hard-hitting subjects.
‘Echoes of Shadows’, written and directed by former journalist Helen McKenna, received funding from the Isle of Man Arts Council’s grant in December 2024.
Set on a fictional island, the story follows Connie, played by Lisa Kreisky, as she battles with her trauma amidst navigating her early 30s as a news journalist.
She reconnects with Fiadh (Grainne Joughin) after almost a decade of no contact, who is living in poverty and experiencing trauma of her own.
Loss
The story focusses on the complexity of relationships, social/collective responsibility, guilt, fate, regret, loss, maturity and hope/overcoming difficulties.
Other actors involved in the series so far are Ollie Sykes, Neil Callin, Kelly Firth, Darren Webb, Rachael Braidwood, Jenny Derbyshire, Peter Wicks, Larissa Lyons, Neil King, and Jemima Caine.
The audio drama tackles poignant subjects such as drug and alcohol addiction, sexual assault, and poverty. Each episode will feature signposting to Isle of Man Foodbank, Motiv8 Isle of Man and Victim Support Isle of Man.
Struggles
Author Helen McKenna said: “Throughout my journalistic career, I spoke to individuals who had suffered sexual or domestic abuse, were dealing with mental health struggles, or lost someone to suicide or drug overdoses, as well as those who are helping them in charities such as Victim Support, Motiv8 and the Foodbank.
“In my personal life, I’ve experienced the loss of those close to me who struggled with mental health or addiction.”
She added: “I hope the drama will help raise awareness for people who have been through similar circumstances, or know anyone that has, and to highlight the theatrical talent we have here on-island.”
The first five episodes will be released on Spotify and Apple Podcasts on October 10th. A free preview event takes place at The Launchpad in Douglas on October 9th.