Theater as Therapy: Peace of Mind II Takes Mental Health Advocacy to the Stage

Samuel French playwright Jeff Locker’s festival of short plays spotlights fundraising for sliding-scale mental health services in Pasadena
Published on Sep 4, 2025

Samuel French playwright Jeff Locker’s festival of short plays returns to raise funds for the nonprofit Rose City Center’s sliding-scale mental health services in Pasadena.

On Saturday, September 6, The Colony Theatre in Burbank will host “Peace of Mind II: A Festival of Short Plays,” the annual signature fundraising event for Rose City Center, a nonprofit psychology clinic and training institute in Pasadena.

The 90-minute production, written and directed by Samuel French playwright Jeff Locker, tackles challenging mental health topics through what organizers describe as “thoughtful, entertaining, and award-winning” works that promise to be both “emotionally resonant” and “visually stunning.”

The show carries content warnings for relationship violence and suicidality and is recommended for ages 13 and up.

“We are incredibly thrilled to present Peace of Mind II to audiences,” said Ron Sequeira, board chair of Rose City Center, who also serves as a producer and performer.

Executive Director Mary Malecha added that “hosting this year’s show and bringing an evening of unforgettable theater and fun to the community is exciting.”

The cast includes performers with film, television, and Broadway backgrounds.

Last year’s inaugural show sold out, indicating strong community support for using arts to address mental health advocacy.

All proceeds benefit Rose City Center’s psychotherapy and training programs, which provide sliding-scale mental health services to the community.

The organization offers sponsorship opportunities from $1,500 to $10,000, with all contributions being 100 percent tax-deductible.

“Peace of Mind II: A Festival of Short Plays” will run on Saturday, September 6 at 7 p.m. The Colony Theatre, 555 N. Third St., Burbank. For more call (626) 793-8609 or visit https://events.thestagecrafts.com/projects/12567?tab=details. Tickets: $40 general admission, $100 VIP.