Actress, author Patty Duke to speak to a sold-out Plachta in May
Academy Award-winning actress and mental health advocate Patty Duke will speak next month to a sold-out Plachta Auditorium.
Twelve hundred people are coming to Central Michigan University’s campus at 7 p.m. May 13 for the free event, “Have You Met Anna? An Evening with Patty Duke.”
“She is very popular,” said Community Event Assistant Lori Apple. “We are glad we chose her.”
Duke will discuss her struggle with bipolar depression, according to a news release.
This event is brought to Mount Pleasant by Community Mental Health for Central Michigan, and is made possible by a grant received by the CMHCM, Apple said.
“This is part of a local effort to help normalize and increase awareness (of mental illness,)” said Customer Service Representative Julie Rookard.
Duke’s reputation caused the free event to “sell out” of tickets two weeks ago, Apple said. Duke is known in the acting world for performances in “The Miracle Worker,” “The Patty Duke Show,” “Me, Natalie,” “My Sweet Charlie” and “Captains and the Kings.”
She received a total of 12 awards for her numerous roles, including an Oscar, and an additional 14 nominations.
In 1987, Duke opened up to the world about her struggle with bipolar disorder in her autobiography, “Call Me Anna.” The book was made into a film in 1990, and Duke acted as herself in the picture.
Later in 1992, Duke published “A Brilliant Madness: Living with Manic Depressive Illness,” specifically detailing her life with bipolar disorder.
Duke continues an acting career today and speaks at forums to educate others.
Apple said a mission of the CMHCM is to erase negative thoughts in the community about mental disorders.
“There is a stigma attached to mental illness,” she said.
The CMHCM oversees activities in six counties, Apple said, and looks to create a documentary to show to classrooms and various community meetings.
“We’re trying to do as much as we can,” she said.
Approximately one in five people suffer from a mental disease, Apple said.
“If we can all just do our part to help in recovery, that’s really the ultimate goal,” she said.
“An Evening with Patty Duke” will feature opportunities for questions and book signing for attendees.
