MCC presents ‘super happy’ mental health musical

MUSKEGON, Mich. (WOOD) – A musical coming to Muskegon Community College Theater offers a “super happy” take on mental health.

Later that month, the college drama department presents A Super Happy Story (About Feeling Super Sad). It’s been described as a feel-good musical comedy that touches on serious issues like mental illness and depression.

Les Rodrick, the college drama teacher, spoke to News 8 about the themes of the play and why it’s so important to explore the subject.

“Mental health was a big taboo for a few years, people didn’t talk about it at all. Luckily, people are talking about it more,” Rodrick said. “October is actually mental health awareness month, so it fitted really well with the Ah Fest theme, which was wellness.”

He said they didn’t want to “overdo” the issue.

“We didn’t want to overdo it. We wanted it to be accessible and digestible and not feel too heavy,” he said. “Telling it in a light way, that is, with some music that touches on something very honest, but is something that comes with entertainment and a kind of fun. It makes it something that’s digestible and fun. That makes it kind of palatable and kind of a fresh take on the topic.”

A Super Happy Story (About Feeling Super Sad) will be performed at 7:30 p.m. October 27-29 and 3 p.m. October 30 at the Overbrook Theater at Muskegon Community College. Tickets are $15 for the general public and $10 for MCC students and staff.

A content warning was issued about the show because it contains sensitive topics such as depression and suicide. After each performance there will be a talk about mental health issues, led by MCC consultants and the cast.

For more information, see muskegoncc.edu.