THE director of Chatroom, the final play of the Garrick’s season, said that it was ideal for young people.

Joe Meighan, who is also the theatre’s artistic director, has no worries about directing 18 – 20-year olds. Now 26, he has directed 30 youth productions since he was 15.

“In the original script there are a set of six chairs but, in my version, there will be six small rostrums. The cast work together even though they are separate.”

Joe has added some physical theatre.

“When it was done by the National it was billed as a black comedy. Yet there are funny bits which humanise it and make it entertaining.”

Joe explains that the six members of the chatroom are there for different reasons.

He said that Jim (Elyas Meekcoms) was probably the nearest to a lead character.

“He is starting to feel depressed and thinking of taking his life and that is why he enters the chatroom.

“Two members are malicious towards him and some are supportive.”

He said: “Suicide has become a huge part of young people’s lives. It has always been a taboo subject and we are dealing with it through talking about it.

“Because of lockdown, depression and suicide have become bigger issues for young people than Covid.

“When I was at school, we didn’t talk about mental health issues but, now, young people have become very open about issues like that and I think that s a positive thing.

“I’m glad to say the ending is hopeful and optimistic, “he said.

The group known as the Garrick Ensemble will cater for 18 – 30 year olds and Joe will direct one show a year with them.

Chatroom runs from Monday, July 19 – Saturday, July 24.

For tickets, telephone 0161 928 1677 or book online.