Reflections from Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) after a poignant night out at Nottingham Playhouse.
Last night, I had the privilege of witnessing the heart-wrenching and ultimately uplifting performance of Dear Evan Hansen at the Nottingham Playhouse theatre. As the CEO of an organisation dedicated to suicide prevention, this show resonated with me on a profound level.
The story of Evan Hansen, a lonely teenager struggling to connect with others, is a stark reminder of the silent battles so many individuals face. The isolation, the desperation, the feeling of being invisible – these are emotions that can lead to despair and, tragically, suicide.
As someone who works in suicide prevention, I have seen the devastating impact of suicide on families and communities. I have held the hands of those on the edge, teetering between life and death. I have witnessed the profound grief of those left behind, their lives forever shattered by the loss of a loved one.
But I have also witnessed the incredible resilience of the human spirit. I have seen individuals emerge from the darkness, finding hope and healing in the most unexpected places. I have seen families transformed by tragedy, their love for each other shining brighter than ever before.
Dear Evan Hansen reminds us that we are not alone. That even in our darkest moments, there is always a glimmer of hope. That connection, even in the most unlikely circumstances, can save a life.
The show’s powerful message of hope and healing is one that resonates deeply with me and with the work we do at Harmless. We believe that every life is precious, that every person deserves to be seen, heard and loved. We are committed to providing support, resources, and a safe space for those struggling with suicidal thoughts and their families.
As the final notes of ‘You Will Be Found’ echoed through the theatre, I was filled with a sense of renewed purpose and hope. The lyrics, ‘Even when the dark comes crashing through, when you need a friend to carry you, when you’re broken on the ground, you will be found’, are a powerful reminder that we are all connected, that we are all in this together.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. You are not alone. There is hope. And you will be found.
If you need support, you can make a referral to Harmless and The Tomorrow Project here.
Dear Evan Hansen is on at Nottingham Playhouse until Saturday 28th September. Full details and tickets are available here. Discounted tickets for those aged 15–25 are available by signing up for a Youth Pass Membership.

Reflecting On My Childhood: Children’s Mental Health Week
By Božana Lončarević (Training & Education Officer) This week, we observe Children’s Mental Health Week and its theme Know Yourself,