Expert Review: Why Every Brilliant Thing Is Uniquely Powerful

4.7
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

Every Brilliant Thing is a uniquely powerful theatrical experience that transforms a difficult subject into something profoundly uplifting. Duncan Macmillan's play about mental health and resilience creates an intimate connection between performer and audience, celebrating the small things that make life worth living. With a star-studded rotating cast bringing their own interpretations, each performance offers a fresh perspective on this globally acclaimed work.

What Makes It Special

  • Rotating Star Cast: Features exceptional performers including Lenny Henry, Sue Perkins, Ambika Mod, and Minnie Driver, each bringing unique interpretation.
  • Audience Participation: The interactive nature creates a sense of community and shared experience that's both moving and therapeutic.
  • Universal Themes: Explores depression and resilience with humor and hope, making difficult topics accessible and uplifting.
  • Intimate Setting: @sohoplace provides the perfect venue for this one-person show that requires close connection with the audience.

Perfect For

Anyone seeking meaningful theatre, fans of the rotating cast members, those interested in mental health awareness, and audiences who appreciate innovative, participatory theatrical experiences.

Everything You Need to Know

The Story

When you're seven years old and your mum is in hospital because she's "done something stupid," what do you do? You start making a list of everything brilliant about the world. Everything worth living for.

The List Grows

What begins as ice cream, kung fu movies, and being allowed to watch TV after 9pm expands into a life-long project. As the narrator grows up, the list becomes more sophisticated, more personal, and more essential to their understanding of what makes life meaningful.

Interactive Elements

The audience becomes part of the story, contributing their own "brilliant things" and participating in recreating key moments. This creates a unique, communal experience where every performance is different.

Themes

The play explores depression, family relationships, the power of small joys, community support, and the ways we help each other through difficult times.

Rotating Star Cast

Lenny Henry

Comedy legend and acclaimed actor bringing warmth and gravitas to the role. Known for "Chef!" and extensive stage work including "Fences" and "The Comedy of Errors."

Sue Perkins

Beloved comedian and TV presenter making her West End debut. Former "Great British Bake Off" host known for wit and emotional intelligence.

Ambika Mod

Rising star from "One Day" and "This is Going to Hurt," bringing fresh perspective and emotional depth to the role.

Minnie Driver

Oscar-nominated actress ("Good Will Hunting") making her London stage return in this intimate setting.

Jonny Donahoe

Co-creator and original performer of the show, bringing the authenticity of the work's origins.

Creative Team

Writer: Duncan Macmillan with Jonny Donahoe
Directors: Jeremy Herrin and Duncan Macmillan
Producer: Second Half Productions

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Tuesday - Thursday: 7:30pm
  • Friday: 6:00pm & 8:30pm
  • Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Monday: 7:30pm (selected dates)

Getting There

  • Underground: Tottenham Court Road (1 min walk)
  • Buses: Multiple routes to Tottenham Court Road
  • Parking: Limited street parking - use public transport

Theatre Information

  • London's newest theatre, opened 2022
  • Capacity: 602 seats in flexible configuration
  • Fully accessible with lift access
  • State-of-the-art sound and lighting
  • Bars and dining available

Content Guidance

Recommended for ages 12+. Contains discussion of suicide and depression. Includes audience participation and involvement. This is an uplifting and hopeful show despite dealing with serious themes.