This April, The White Bear in Kennington will host the world premiere of The Psychiatrist, a powerful new play by Julian Bird.
Running from 8–26 April 2025, this two-hander sheds light on the unseen struggles of psychiatrists, with Bird drawing on his decades of experience in the field to craft an authentic and thought-provoking story.
The Psychiatrist explores the challenging dynamic of mental health professionals balancing their personal wellbeing with their demanding roles. Based on real events, the play portrays a psychiatrist caught between inadequate resources at work and deep personal loss, leading him to seek therapy himself. The audience sees the main character alternately as a therapist and a patient, uncovering the emotional complexity of working in mental health care.
Bird not only wrote the play but also stars in the title role. After a 40-year career as a psychiatrist and physician, he embarked on an acting career in his sixties, training at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. His acting credits include acclaimed roles in theatre (Freud’s Last Session at the King’s Head) and TV (EastEnders, The Tudors).
“From my own experience, I am well aware that at times of stress, the mental health of psychiatrists can be a critical factor in the treatment of their patients,” said Bird. The Psychiatrist offers a vivid glimpse into these often-unseen tensions and provides a unique perspective on the mental health struggles faced by those tasked with caring for others.
The play is directed by Kenneth Michaels, who returns to The White Bear after helming The Dedication in 2024. Produced by Alistair Brown, the production promises an intimate and riveting theatrical experience.
Performance and tickets:
- Dates: 8–26 April 2025
- Showtimes: Tuesday–Saturday at 7.45pm; Saturday matinees at 3pm
- Venue: The White Bear, Kennington
- Tickets: £20 (£15 concessions)
- Booking: www.whitebeartheatre.co.uk
Don’t miss this gripping, authentic exploration of the human side of psychiatry. Secure your tickets now and discover The Psychiatrist, where professional care meets personal vulnerability.