Local actors in conjunction with a bar owner and the Nanaimo RCMP are getting proactive about a recent rash of drink-spiking.
A Crime Stoppers video will be filmed today at the Queen's Hotel to raise awareness about the 'date-rape drug' — GHB.
Police received eight reports from people who said their drinks were drugged while out at local bars in late October and November.
Queen's owner Jerry Hong said he wanted to be involved in the video to show that bar owners are aware of the problem and prepared to take action.
"Even though it didn't happen in any of our bars, we're hoping the video can go out to teens and in high schools too because there's no age limit on this, you don't have to be 19. It can happen at house parties as well," said Hong. "We're hoping it will help."
The video, which will be released locally next week, will feature local actors in a bar scene that illustrates how easy it is to have a drink drugged, said Nanaimo RCMP spokesman Const. Gary O'Brien, who will be reading a voiceover in the video.
"We'll be showing how easily a drink can be spiked, and what friends should do if somebody suddenly finds themselves under the influence of GHB," said O'Brien.
A 19-year-old woman named Taylor who came forward to say she was drugged in late October said her symptoms included dizziness, nausea, flashing vision and numbness.
It would be helpful to have materials out there that assisted people in how to spot suspicious behaviour, she said.
"After a few drinks, everyone's judgement isn't the best," she said. "If I was sober I wouldn't have accepted that drink."
A callout from theatre groups and acting coaches was issued for local actors.
At least four students from Vancouver Island University will take part.
"Any of that kind of activity is good for those who are interested in the business," said VIU theatre department chairman Mike Taugher, who put up a sign-up sheet for students.
"Acting students aren't afraid to dance around in front of a camera."
The video shoot takes place at 1 p.m. at the Queen's Hotel on Victoria Crescent.
