Eating disorders are very common among teenage girls and young women who hope to stand out on stage, at parties, or as influencers online. Anorexia is one of the leading causes of death among young women in Europe. The pursuit of perfection makes girls particularly vulnerable to eating disorders. Although there is increasing discussion about the toxicity of success and beauty culture, messages glorifying these ideals easily reach young people through the internet.
Additionally, the same behavioural and thought patterns tend to be passed down in families. A remark made by a mother about her reflection, overheard by her young daughter, can lead to a battle for that daughter’s life ten years later.
Although eating disorders are called “good girls’ diseases”, young men are also becoming more and more susceptible to disease, among whom gym addiction is spreading, combined with an eating disorder.
The documentary production “Perfect” tells the story of one family’s struggle with eating disorders, the pursuit of perfection, and their collective effort towards healing. The production uses dramaturgical material from Silvia, Herta, and Marta Soro, Herta Soro’s original choreography, and Kristjan Glück’s original music and video. The cast includes Silvia Soro, Herta Soro, and Marta Soro.
“Perfect” was performed June 3 and 4 at 6 PM in the blackbox-room of the University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy, November 7 at 19.00, November 9 at 18.00, and November 15 at 19.00 at TEMUFI Theatre. The production is primarily aimed at middle and high school students and their families, highlighting the causes of eating disorders and possible treatments. Despite the serious topic, the production is not entirely dark, it includes bright moments and self-ironic humour. After the performances, there will be discussion circles with psychologists or doctors from the Department of Eating Disorders at Tartu University Hospital.
