Podcast details allegations and mental health crisis at prominent regional theatre

by Chris Peterson, OnStage Blog Founder

In 2019, actor Sean Hayden experienced a mental health crisis while working as a lead actor at one of the most prestigious and powerful theaters in the U.S., the Goodspeed Opera House. Now, four years later, Hayden is discussing what happened backstage that led to his mental health crisis.

His podcast, ‘Stage Combat: A Mental Health Story’, details his story and includes allegations of bullying and harassment and how Goodspeed staff did not responsibly respond to pleas for help.

Over the course of multiple episodes, Hayden discusses what happened behind the scenes of the musical Billy Elliott when he was cast as ‘Dad.’ He talks about the rehearsal process, his fantastic working relationships with the creative team and fellow cast members, and his optimism of not only a great show but future employment with the theatre.

However, that all apparently changed as opening night approached.According to Hayden, his relationship with another actor, whom he refers to as ‘Chad’, became negative and volatile. Chad was playing the character of ‘Tony’, which was the son of Hayden’s character. The two have multiple physical fights and intense dialogue throughout the show.

In one episode, Hayden describes how Chad improvised movements during a staged fight that almost injured Hayden. Combining this incident with other examples of Chad’s behavior, Hayden reportedly went to Goodspeed management to discuss it and his concerns over his safety performing alongside Chad.

What Hayden didn’t know is that Goodspeed was apparently ill-equipped to handle these situations and labeled him as a “difficult” actor.

Not all the episodes have been posted yet, but it is a riveting series so far. In addition to Hayden telling his story, it also features discussions with mental health professionals.

No one from the Goodspeed Opera House or the production responded for comment.

Once all the episodes are posted, I will be doing a follow-up on the story.