There isn't an actor she hasn't made look good or a director she hasn't helped bring a show to life - designer extraordinaire Lindsay Anne Black is now facing an unexpected early retirement from the work she is so very good at. Lindsay has always been inventive, generous, adventurous and kind in her work. It's time we helped her as she moves on to her next life adventure.
Noticing increasingly severe health issues over the past few years, Lindsay has made the brave choice to move on from the theatre world she loves as she deals with a severe Multiple Chemical Sensitivity.
In Lindsay's own words:
"By 2010, chronic exposure to
paint/adhesives/solvents was giving me abdominal pain, asthma, and blurred
vision on top of the occasional attacks of heart palpitations.
I abandoned painting and props, and switched to designing full-time. In
2011, my new toxicologist finally linked what we thought had been separate
health problems together under Chemical Sensitivity, but did not know a lot
about it. I did not know until later that it is considered a permanent
disability."
Her health concerns are so acute, that Lindsay even has trouble with non-theatre workplaces:
"It now takes very little to trigger
an attack of heart palpitations (which can sometimes lead to loss of
consciousness) and I am constantly suffering from itchy eyes, asthma, tingling
in my hands, and burning rashes. Transit is difficult for me at any time of
day, but actually dangerous during rush hour. Same goes for any crowds; I have
been very sick during and after previews and openings. I cannot go to malls."
Lindsay can no longer work with the tools of her trade. Those of us who have had the honour of working with her know what a loss this is.
HELP US HELP LINDSAY AS SHE MAKES THIS TRANSITION.
We all know how hard it is to be a freelance artist - imagine having that worked pulled right out from under you. Lindsay needs our support in this difficult moment. Any funds raised go straight to LAB to help her on her way - simple as that.
Lindsay has worked across the theatre scene in Canada, including at:
Tarragon Theatre, Theatre Passe Muraille, Factory Theatre, Buddies In Bad Times, Stratford Festival, Theatre Aquarius, Blyth Festival, George Brown Theatre School and for about 11 million independent production companies.
Please consider helping her out!