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“THIS IS CRAZY!”: New Play by V featuring Jane Fonda, Sanaa Lathan, and more to benefit mental health advocacy
The one-night-only performance marks the beginning of National Mental Illness Awareness Week and will benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a leading nonprofit focused on mental health support and education.
A new theatrical production, THIS IS CRAZY!, will debut October 6, 2025, at Symphony Space in New York City. The one-night-only performance marks the beginning of National Mental Illness Awareness Week and will benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a leading nonprofit focused on mental health support and education.
About the production
Created and directed by Tony and Obie Award-winning playwright V, formerly Eve Ensler, author of The Vagina Monologues, the play features a series of monologues exploring mental illness and emotional complexity.
The cast includes:
- Jane Fonda
- Mark Ruffalo
- Marisa Tomei
- Sanaa Lathan
- Rosanna Arquette
- Lois Smith
- Rachel Hilson
- Olivia Oguma
- Colette McDermott
- Derrick Delgado
- Luke Ferrari
- Doireann Mac Mahon
- Clarence Maclin
- Mohammad Saleem
Each actor presents a personal narrative, highlighting the human experience through humor, vulnerability, and resilience. The production was developed by the CAA Foundation in memory of talent manager Chris Huvane. Ruth-Ann Huvane, a NAMI board member and mental health advocate, serves as producer.
“We are grateful to V and the cast for supporting our mission,” said NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. “Storytelling helps reduce stigma and build understanding. This performance will strengthen our outreach and support efforts nationwide.”
Supporting mental health awareness
Mental health conditions affect millions of Americans. According to NAMI, one in five adults and one in six youth ages 6–17 experience a mental health condition annually. These challenges impact individuals across all communities, regardless of age or background.
More performances
A second performance is planned for Los Angeles in 2026. All proceeds from both events will directly support NAMI’s programs and services. With over 650 affiliates nationwide, NAMI provides education, advocacy, and community support for those affected by mental illness.
Tickets for THIS IS CRAZY!
Tickets for the New York performance are now available. For more information on THIS IS CRAZY!, NAMI, or ways to contribute, visit NAMI.org/ThePlay.
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