MCC students present “Super Happy” musical about mental health

“A Super Happy Story...” Poster

“A Super Happy Story...” Poster

On October 27 through 30, 2022, Muskegon Community College (MCC) students will present A Super Happy Story (About Feeling Super Sad) to raise awareness about depression and suicide prevention. The Michigan premiere of this cabaret musical sends the message that “it’s OK not to be OK.” The performances will be at the Overbrook Theater on the main MCC campus located at 221 S. Quarterline Road.  

Joining in the 2022 AH FEST theme of Wellness, the STORY is about Sally, a happy person. She doesn’t let little things get her down and almost never cries. But she’s got an illness. It makes her feel like she isn’t the person she wants to be…. but she doesn’t want anyone to know about it. Written by Olivier Award-winner Jon Brittain with original music by Matthew Floyd Jones, it’s a feel-good musical comedy that touches on serious topics such as mental illness and depression. 

A TALKBACK, following each performance will be led by MCC counselors and the cast. Director Sheila Wahamaki explains, “This play is a great springboard for discussions about mental illness. As Tash, a character in the show, says to Sally, ‘Don’t keep it a secret. Everyone pretends like it didn’t happen to them. Talking’s the only way to let someone else know they’re not the only one. You deserve to get better.’ and so do we all. So, let’s talk.” 

MCC student performers are Rikki Ridout, as Sally, with ensemble support by Tom Bitson, Cequoia Davis, and accompanist, Chris Towers. Members of the creative team are Director Sheila Kulp Wahamaki, Musical Director Nicholas Palmer, Assistant Directors Annmarie Santos and Alison Mastee, and Designers Andrew Patton, Susan Eyler, and Les Rorick. 

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, October 27, 28 and 29, and at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 30. Tickets are $15 for the public and $10 for MCC students and staff. 

Tickets are available ONLY online at https://mccoverbrooktheater.ludus.com until the day of each show. Tickets will be sold at the Overbrook Theater Box Office one hour prior to each performance. Call (231) 777-0324 for more information. CONTENT WARNING: Depression & Suicide