I Love You, Mum – Film
by Mark Wheeller
The film of I Love You, Mum – I Promise I Won’t Die
In order to further extend the reach of Dan’s story, Tie It Up Theatre has filmed two versions of Mark Wheeller’s ‘I Love You, Mum – I Promise I Won’t Die’ for use in schools, colleges and beyond. The package includes the film (different versions are available for England and Scotland, in order to make it as relatable as possible for young people) plus resources to enable school or college staff to deliver an interactive workshop so students can further explore the production’s key themes. Trailers of these films are below, and enquiries should be directed to play@dsmfoundation.org.uk.
Just as with live performances of the play, the filmed version really lands with those who watch it, with students responding to its messages of love and loss as a result of drug use, and commenting on how real and emotional it feels. Teachers also respond to it favourably, with one saying: “Loved it, very engaged and moving.”
- For information about live performances of the play, click here.
Dan loved drama, and his school drama teacher, Izzy Forrester, became one of the first Trustees of the DSM Foundation. It was her idea, in those early months after Dan died, that we consider using drama as a means of communicating our important messages to young people. Mark Wheeller was the number one choice for her. She had taught his plays for many years – Dan had studied ‘Legal Weapon’ himself at school – and she had witnessed the power of his writing on young people. She checked with Dan’s parents, sent Mark an email, and the result is this moving piece of theatre, that captures so beautifully the joyful life and tragic death of Dan, and captivates audiences of all ages.
