There's a new one-man play being staged in Sudbury by the local theatre troupe known as YES Theatre/STC. It's called Every Brilliant Thing and is being performed at an intimate outdoor venue called The Refettorio in the city's downtown area.
In the production, local actor and the company's artistic director, Alessandro Costantini, presents what's been described in a theatre news release as a "gentle, life-affirming, roller coaster of a show about what makes life worth living and the lengths we will go for those we love.'
"It is basically a conversation between the actor and the audience, and it tells the story of a young boy who is grappling with his mother's chronic depression," he said.
"In an effort to cheer her up, at age seven, he makes a list of everything worth living for. This list gradually takes on a bit of a life of its own and grows substantially longer during his life."
The play follows the boy through his teenage years and into adulthood, and explores themes of mental health and how people get through difficult times in their lives.
Costantini says although there is only one actor involved, the audience will have a number of interactive experiences.
"As people enter the theatre, they are given a small piece of paper with a number and a thing written on it. Throughout the play, I say many different numbers, and when their number is called, the audience members are required to speak the thing back," he said.
Costantini says he feels the themes of mental health and the healing journey are particularly timely these days.
"The thing that struck me about the writing is how much it celebrates the idea of talking to the people you love and how much community is sort of necessary in these moments, and that felt really akin to my own values, and my own practices an an artist," he said.
Asked if doing a one-man play is exhausting, Costantini says it's not, but it is an interesting challenge, and one he welcomes.
"It really feels like nothing I've ever done in my career, because it's so unique, and there's so much spontaneity in it, especially as it is an outdoor venue with the sound of the city going by," he said.
"It also informs the way that the show flows. It's been really thrilling so far, audiences have been really loving it, and finding it really unique."
Every Brilliant Thing is being staged outdoors at The Refettorio in downtown Sudbury until Sept. 25.
A Play Exploring the Power of Hope
Every Brilliant Thing is a poignant and humorous play that tells the story of a young boy who creates a list of everything brilliant in the world to help his mother who is struggling with depression. The play follows him as he grows up, adding to the list as he experiences life’s joys and sorrows.
Written by British playwright Duncan Macmillan, Every Brilliant Thing has been praised for its honesty, humor, and ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. The play has been performed around the world since its debut in 2011, and was also adapted as a movie by Netflix in 2016.
Audience Participation: A Key Element
What makes Every Brilliant Thing so unique is its interactive element. Audience members are given a piece of paper with a “brilliant thing” written on it. As the play progresses, the actor, playing the character who is compiling the list, calls out numbers, prompting audience members to read their “brilliant things.” This creates a sense of shared experience and community, and allows audiences to actively participate in the story.
Exploring Mental Health and Resilience
The play tackles themes of mental health, resilience, and the power of hope. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there are always things to appreciate, and that we can find strength and solace in our connections with others.
The play is a powerful reminder of the importance of talking about mental health, and of seeking help when we need it. It also underscores the importance of community and connection in times of adversity.
A Powerful Performance for Sudbury
The Sudbury production of Every Brilliant Thing is being performed by Alessandro Costantini, the company’s artistic director. Costantini says he was drawn to the play because of its focus on community and its ability to make audiences feel uplifted.
"It is a piece about community, it is a piece about sharing, about conversation, and I know that people leave feeling completely uplifted," Costantini said.
The play is directed by Jeannette Lambermont-Morey, a renowned director who has worked with major theatre companies across Canada and the United States. Lambermont-Morey says she believes the play is perfectly suited to Costantini’s talents as an actor.
Beyond the Stage: A Deeper Impact
Every Brilliant Thing is more than just a play; it’s a call to action. The production encourages audiences to reflect on their own lives and to appreciate the “brilliant things” that surround them. It also prompts us to reach out to those who may be struggling with mental health challenges and to offer support and encouragement.
In a world that can often feel overwhelming and uncertain, Every Brilliant Thing is a powerful reminder that there is always hope, and that we are not alone in our experiences.
Final Thoughts: A Message for Every Heart
Every Brilliant Thing is a must-see for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and uplifting theatrical experience. The play is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope, and that we can find strength and solace in our connections with others. The show is a testament to the power of theatre to connect us, to inspire us, and to remind us of the beauty and fragility of life.
Go see Every Brilliant Thing before it's gone!
