Following on from her successful directorial debut in London last summer, 18-year-old writer, director and actor Siyani Sheth is taking her “raw, brave and powerful” memory play The Expulsion of Exulansis, to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this August 2024.
This moving true story delves into deeply personal experiences of depression, anxiety, eating disorders and self-harm, offering a compelling journey of hope and resilience. Set against the backdrop of the growing mental health crisis among teenagers, the writer hopes to create an open dialogue, greater awareness and more support for all, with plenty of tears and laughter.
Speaking to the BBC about why she wrote this play, Siyani said ‘She wants to give a voice to other teenagers like herself, who are suffering in silence with similar issues. She wants them to know that they are not alone.’. The play's narrative has resonated deeply with teenagers who are battling their own mental health issues or supporting their friends, parents concerned about their children's well-being, and educators and health professionals seeking insights into safeguarding students and supporting their recovery.
Siyani Sheth is an 18 year old British Indian playwright from London, who was diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and an eating disorder at the age of 15. Her first play “The Expulsion of Exulansis”, debuted at Studio Spaces E1 London last summer to rave reviews. She has just finished her A-Levels and is hoping to study English Literature and Drama at university.
Reviews of the debut show of The Expulsion of Exulansis from 29-31st July 2023, London E1:
“The play was so raw and authentic and all the more powerful for that.” - Sarah Marks, CEO RedSTART Educate
“Powerful story and piece of work. It was a privilege to have been able to see it brought to life in the way it was” - Andy Appleyard, CEO MRM
“An impressive piece of theatre - raw, honest and brave. Touching and emotive - a window into a personal world…” - Sarah Thorne, COO The Return Hub
“To say it was a breath of fresh air is an understatement, it was oxygen.” - Anon
Venue: Lower Theatre, The Space, Niddry Street, Edinburgh EH1 1TH (Venue 9)
Tickets: £10 daily (£8 concessions)
Previews: 31 July, 1 Aug and 2 Aug 15:00; St Vincent’s Chapel, St Vincent Street, EH3 6SW
Dates: 2-19 Aug 2024 daily
Time: 14:20 (1h)
Box Office: 0131 226 0000,
For further information and images or to request a media ticket please contact mitesh.sheth@me.com or 07968968811.
About "The Expulsion of Exulansis":
exulansis - n. the tendency to give up trying to talk about an experience because people are unable to relate to it
"Expulsion of Exulansis" is a heartfelt memory play written and produced by a 18-year-old drama student, bravely delving into her personal journey through depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and self-harm. The play aims to raise awareness about teenage mental health epidemic.
About Siyani Sheth:
Siyani Sheth is an 18 year old British Indian playwright from London, who was diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and an eating disorder at the age of 15. Her first play “The Expulsion of Exulansis”, debuted at Studio Spaces E1 London last summer to rave reviews. She has just finished her A-Levels and is hoping to study English Literature and Drama at university.
About The Edinburgh Fringe Festival:
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society was founded by artists to nurture and uphold the Fringe's values of inclusivity, experimentation and imagination. The founding principle at the heart of the Fringe is to be an open access festival that accommodates anyone with a desire to perform and a venue willing to host them. No single individual or committee determines who can or cannot perform at the Fringe; the Fringe Society does not run any venues or programme any performers.
Some links from Summer 2023:
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