Clowns Like Me Newsroom
Media Contact: DJ Kramer | admin@lifelineproductionsinc.org | (917) 902-5898 cell
MISSION STATEMENT
LIFELINE PRODUCTIONS produces personal stories of those living with mental illness to create awareness, stimulate conversation, reduce stigmas, and foster hope and healing.
ABOUT US
Using thing the power of the arts, LIFELINE PRODUCTIONS takes you inside the minds of those who struggle, to better understand their invisible demons, and shatter the stigma surrounding mental illness. By producing and presenting personal stories they provide hope, healing, comfort, and a sense of control to those who suffer from mental illnesses, their families, friends, and caretakers. Their productions, talk-back sessions, and programs help nurture the seeds of normalizing mental illness and help foster mental wellness. Their first production, CLOWNS LIKE ME, debuted to sold-out audiences and rave reviews at Sarasota's Cook Theatre in May 2023 and is set to begin touring in 2024. LIFELINE PRODUCTIONS is a Sarasota Florida based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
MEDIA RELEASE
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Download official media release Sarasota CLOWNS New York Sneak Peek – PDF
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Download official media release Sarasota CLOWNS New York Sneak Peek – Word Document
IMAGES
“CLOWNS LIKE ME” Show Logos/Artwork
VIDEO
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36-second Video: https://youtu.be/tT9_1_Yu50U
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1:38 Trailer Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vObaulBFBs&t=26s
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3:42 Audience Reactions Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6st7fZJZQNw&t=51s
BIOS
Scott Ehrenpreis (Performer) earned a BFA in performance from Ohio University. Stage credits include Network, Smoke and Mirrors, and The Lehman Trilogy at Florida Studio Theatre, and Moon over Buffalo at The Player's Theatre. He played Ben Silverman in The Sunshine Boys (multiple productions), The Front Page at Asolo Repertory Theatre, and several shows and play festivals at Theatre Odyssey. Television credits include South Beach Tow (TruTV), as CIA officer in Burn Notice (USA Network), and as Isaac Andrews in Anastasia Avenue (web series). Film credits include I Am a White Blood Cell, The Actor, and Mr. Smiller.
Jason Cannon (Playwright/Director) is an award-winning actor, director, playwright, improviser, and teacher, as well as a best-selling author and publisher. He has an MFA in Directing, an MA in Drama, and over 25 years’ experience in professional theatre. Jason has 100+ credits as an actor, 120+ credits as a director, and Clowns Like Me is his ninth produced play as a playwright. Proud member AEA and SDC. www.jasoncannon.art
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Joel Ehrenpreis (Lifeline Productions Founder & CEO) is a seasoned professional with over 45 years of executive level experience in marketing, sales, long-range planning, brand evolution, and consulting in both the healthcare industry and private sector. He is a well respected as an entrepreneurial, creative, accomplished producer, skilled motivator and team leader. His career has been diverse. He spent 16 years with the largest Vision Benefit Management Company, went on the create today’s EYEMED vision program for Luxottica, and founded many other ventures. Joel’s focus and time for the past 5 years has been around the mental illness crisis in this country. His passion has led to creating LIFELINE PRODUCTIONS.
SHOW DESCRIPTIONS
Short Version:
In his hit one-man show “Clowns Like Me,” Sarasota actor and storyteller Scott Ehrenpreis shares his humorous, heartbreaking, and deeply personal story of the stigmas attached to developmental disorders and mental illnesses. Through laughter and tears “Clowns Like Me” offers hope to anyone on a journey to achieve mental wellness.
Long Version:
In his deeply personal and universally resonant one-man show, seasoned actor and master storyteller Scott Ehrenpreis tells his humorous yet profound story of living with mental illness. Like, lots of mental illness.
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“Clowns Like Me” fearlessly confronts the challenges of living with OCD, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, social anxiety, and depression, weaving a tale that is as heartbreaking as it is inspiring. Through his journey, Scott uncovers a remarkable truth: the stage becomes his sanctuary, a place where, if only for a few hours, he can emerge from the shadows of his struggles into the spotlight of empowerment and self-expression.
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Don't miss this unique and uplifting theatrical experience that promises not only to entertain but to illuminate the resilience of the human spirit. "Clowns Like Me" invites audiences to witness the transformative power of storytelling, where laughter and vulnerability collide to reveal the strength found in facing one's fears. Join Scott for an unforgettable evening complete with post-show talkbacks where the magic of theater becomes a beacon of hope and liberation for those impacted by mental illness.
PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION
The President of the United States signed a proclamation on April 29, 2023 recognizing May as “Mental Health Awareness Month.”
STATISTICS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH
The following links may help create an understanding of the current concerns with mental health in the United States.
American Psychological Association
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Demand for mental health treatment continues to increase, say psychologists (October 19, 2021)
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Increased need for mental health care strains capacity (November 15, 2022)
Pew Research Center
Mental Health American (MHA)
TESTIMONIALS
The following testimonials were collected after several public readings of the script when it was under edits. Those who submitted testimonials understood that they would be used for promotional purposes.
“I found answers and closure to my son’s suicide that nothing in the past 10 years could give me.”
- Dena Wirt
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“Thoroughly entertaining and very thought-provoking.
- Larry Kramer
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“I speak for my wife and myself by saying we attended a preview; a performance without theatrical staging, lighting, and music, yet the story alone creates visuals that are vivid in one’s mind. The meanings we found in the recital would be difficult to convey in many words, though a few words that come to mind immediately are: thought-provoking, compelling, rings-true, a necessary message, meaningful, and above all, extremely entertaining. We so look forward to attending a showing in the professional setting. It is important to broadcast the show’s message to larger audiences. I know that we will be spreading the word.” - Anthony Graziano
“I had the privilege of attending two pre-performance readings of ‘Clowns Like Me.’ The first reading left me speechless. It transported me into the punishing world of mental illness— a world that so many experience first-hand or, as in my case, through a loved one's illness. It was a hypnotic mixture of rage, frustration, exhaustion and humor. I squirmed, I cried, I laughed, and cried again. And, like being on a scary ride in an amusement park … I was moved to come back for more. So a month later, I attended another reading, and once more, I was riveted. Aside from all that I learned (and there's a lot to learn about this beast called mental illness), and all the play will do to focus much-needed attention on it, there is this: It's a damn good story.” - David Rubin
“We found Scott’s story both moving and informative as we too had a daughter with severe OCD and other issues. (Scott’s) story enabled the audience to identify with and appreciate the complications that Scott has faced in his daily life. While explaining how his illness limited/curtailed the daily activities of life, the content was humorous at the same time, despite the seriousness of the subject matter. The play gave a positive message as Scott showed insight into and ability to look on his own handicap with humor and understanding. There is no doubt that it resonated with the audience who poured out their emotional reactions and clear identification with Scott’s issues.” - Joan and Brian Wides, The Melissa Wides Foundation
“To say we were blown away would be an understatement. The reading was an emotional, enlightening eye opening experience which we found most educational about mental health. Having a son who has emotional issues, this play hit very close to home and made us aware of this situation which has become a nationwide problem. This play should be seen by everyone whose family shares this problem, as well as anyone who is concerned with this growing issue. Amazingly well done, sensitive and compassionate, ‘Clowns Like Me’ will appeal to everyone who is concerned with the mental health condition of our country.” - Larry and Sheree Zaslavsky
“I was deeply moved by the severe internal and emotional struggle that a person with a mental health issue faces. This becomes a reality for the audience because of the outstanding performance of this young man. If this performance helps only one other person or one family who is struggling, then it will be a great step forward. It offers hope and understanding for everyone involved.” - Susan Loesel
“My wife and I have had very little exposure to mental illness. The reading of ‘Clowns Like Me’ gave us a more insight into the life challenges of a person suffering from Aspergers, as no amount of reading, lecturing or discussion did or could ever provide. Our minds and hearts were awakened to this illness. This play not only will educate and stimulate all who see it, but Scott dramatically and most importantly represents all those who suffer from mental illness. Be ready to cry, for this production is a very emotional yet a fortunate experience for those who are stricken with mental illness, their families, and all other spectators.” - Dale Menard
The reading that I attended of ‘Clowns Like Me’ had deep impact. Aside from the authenticity of the story, which was told with humor, humility and a pure honesty, it was hard to leave the room without knowing that we all know someone who has been impacted by mental health issues, and that the reality is we can all see a bit of ourselves in Scott's story. Scott is brave and wonderful, and truly generous in including us all in what goes on in his mind and heart.”- Nelle Miller
NEWSLETTER CONTENT
Here is a suggested story for your organization/agency’s newsletter:
Sarasota One-Man Show About Struggling with Mental Health hits Off-Broadway
In his hit one-man show “Clowns Like Me,” Sarasota actor and storyteller Scott Ehrenpreis tells a humorous yet profound story of living with mental illness and developmental disorders.
After a sold-out run in Sarasota in May 2023, "Clowns Like Me" will now play Off-Broadway this summer. We hope you will join us for a New York "Sneak Peek" presentation of “Clowns Like Me” at the Cook Theatre May 23-26, 2024. Tickets are $30 and are on sale at www.ClownsLikeMe.com.
“Clowns Like Me” reveals the enlightening, heartbreaking, and ultimately uplifting true story of Ehrenpreis’ personal journey as he struggles against OCD, bipolar disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, social anxiety and depression. Ultimately, Ehrenpreis reveals that being on stage gives him the power, even for just a couple hours, to step into the light and leave the shadows of his mental health struggles behind.
Audiences are in for a performance that will make them laugh, cry and leave thinking differently about the stigmas tied to mental health.
SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS
Here are suggested social media posts about “Clowns Like Me.” Be sure to download our social media images, including Facebook and Instagram.
In his hit one-man show “Clowns Like Me,” Sarasota actor and storyteller Scott Ehrenpreis shares his humorous yet profound story of living with mental illness with Sarasota audiences in a New York "Sneak Peek" presentation this May 23-26, 2024 at the Cook Theatre before heading to Off-Broadway this summer. Tickets are $30 and are on sale at www.ClownsLikeMe.com.
We hope you will join us to see the New York "Sneak Peek," of the Off-Broadway one-man show “Clowns Like Me,” in which Sarasota actor and storyteller Scott Ehrenpreis reveals his personal journey as he struggles against OCD, bipolar disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, social anxiety and depression. Get ready to laugh, cry and leave thinking differently about the stigmas tied to mental health. Learn more at www.ClownsLIkeMe.com.
AWARDS
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Winner of "Best Feature" 2023 Conquering Disabilities with Film International Film Festival
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Winner of "Best New Play" 2023 Broadway World Sarasota Regional Awards
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Winner of "Best Direction of a Play" 2023 Broadway World Sarasota Regional Awards
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Official Selection 2024 CENFLO Film Festival
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Official Selection 2024 Sarasota Film Festival
MEDIA COVERAGE
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