Mirror Game shows the effects on children of growing up in an abusive family environment.  The serious nature of the play is punctuated by humorous moments that make the subject material accessible.  Despite the difficult situations the characters face, there is hope that the cycle of abuse can be broken.

Bob, Sara, Maggie and Luke are four teenagers dealing with teenage hang-ups such as body image, peer acceptance and relationships. Their inter-relationships are affected by varying physical, emotional and psychological abuse in their respective families.  Bob's mother puts her son down constantly, pressuring him to achieve, while his Dad neglects him. 

Sara tries to avoid being home due to the violent behaviour of her mother's abusive boyfriend.  However, she doesn't escape the pattern of her mother's dysfunctional behaviour; thinking she deserves no better, Sara dates Luke, who also has a violent father and acts out his resulting anger by controlling Sara.

Maggie's father is continually away on business, which drives her mother into alcoholism. Having learned to take care of her mother, Maggie feels attracted to people and activities that she can "save" while suffering from low esteem about her own appearance. Maggie has a secret crush on Bob; Bob, in turn, is infatuated with the apparently perfect Sara. 

Meanwhile Sara sinks into a deepening depression as Luke's jealous nature causes him to become violent towards her.  When Sara's despondence leads to self-destructive behaviour, Bob and Maggie come to the rescue, supporting her and helping her find professional assistance. 

Winner, Jessie Richardson Award for Outstanding Production for Young Audiences, 1989

*Study Guide available

Pictured - Peter Scoular and Heather Troop. Photo by David Cooper

Recommended Audience: For Teenagers

Themes

• Family Relationships
• Self Esteem
• Peer Pressure
• Abuse