Touching, uplifting and thoughfully created, this 10th anniverary production of Every Brilliant Thing is as meaningful now as when it was first staged.
Skillfully written and expertly performed, this is a truly collaborative piece from Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe. The story follows our unnamed narrator from the age of seven to adulthood, as he attempts to make sense of his mother’s depression and attempts on her own life. In the absence of a grown-up able to explain what has happened, as a boy he understands only that his mum cannot see a reason to be in the world. This prompts him to make a list of all the brilliant things worth living for, which as he matures takes on a whole new life of its own.
Drawing on a large number of audience members to transform this solo show into a type of forum theatre, Donahoe is a master at both selecting willing participants, and illiciting more than they thought they would give. Although the participation is baked-in from the start, it never feels contrived, and there is an excitement and freshness to the unknown secondary cast. There is a startling sincerity to the way they take on and honour the roles, supported and encouraged by their likeable host.
In addition to the spoken elements, music plays a central role in both the storytelling and relationships. A talented musician, Donahoe sprinkles some real magic into these sections, coupled with his comic delivery and the genuine warmth he embues in his character.
Despite the humour and light touches in this piece, neither Macmillan or Donahoe shy away from the dark reality of mental ill-health. Great care has clearly been taken in highlighting and discussing these elements, with reference to the Samartitans’ Media Guidelines and the importance of finding a trusted person to talk to when things seem bleakest. There is a clear message to those considering ending their life – don’t do it, seek help. The way that the play builds a community inside a shared space where these topics can be discussed is really as important as the text, and is the reason it has been so successfully replicated all over the world.
It may seem contradictory, but Every Brilliant Thing is a truly joyful piece about the harsh reality of depression. A one-man show which on this day had a cast of 150 (a full house), it can only be hoped that there is another decade of performances ahead, with its message so important in our troubled times.
By Deborah Klayman
Every Brilliant Thing plays at Summerhall, Edinburgh until 24th August 2024.
Leave a Reply