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Every Brilliant Thing: Discovering The Joy In The Everyday

  • Writer: rbeaugh
    rbeaugh
  • Jul 3, 2025
  • 2 min read

Updated: Jul 13, 2025



Discover the Joy in the Everyday: Swamplight Theatre Presents "Every Brilliant Thing"


Swamplight Theatre is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe's profoundly moving and surprisingly funny play, Every Brilliant Thing, running September 12, 13, 19, & 20 at 7:30 p.m. Prepare for an unforgettable theatrical experience that will touch your heart, tickle your funny bone, and remind you of the countless reasons to embrace life.


Every Brilliant Thing is a unique journey into the human spirit, bravely tackling the delicate subject of depression and mental health with unparalleled compassion and a gentle touch. The play follows a narrator who, at the tender age of seven, begins a list of "every brilliant thing" in the world to cheer up his mother after her first attempt at suicide. As life unfolds, the list grows, becoming a testament to the small, often-overlooked joys that make life worth living – from ice cream and water fights to the smell of old books and falling in love.


This isn't your typical production. Swamplight is embracing the play's intimacy by staging Every Brilliant Thing in a thrust configuration with limited seating. This means the audience will surround the playing area on three sides, creating an immediate and enveloping atmosphere. You won't just be watching a story unfold; you'll be part of it. And that's where the magic truly happens.


Every Brilliant Thing is renowned for its unique and heartfelt audience participation. You might find yourself reading an item from the narrator's ever-growing list of brilliant things, stepping into the shoes of a supporting character for a brief, delightful moment, or even sharing a "brilliant thing" of your own. This isn't about putting anyone on the spot or making them uncomfortable; it's about building a shared experience —a collective embrace of the light and shadow in life —and a reminder that we are all in this together.


The beauty of this participation lies in its seamless integration into the narrative. It fosters a sense of community, vulnerability, and connection that is rarely achieved in traditional theatre. You'll witness how small acts of kindness and shared moments can illuminate even the darkest corners, creating an evening that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.


Every Brilliant Thing offers a powerful message of hope, resilience, and the extraordinary power of human connection. It's a play that will make you laugh, maybe bring a tear to your eye, and most importantly, leave you with a renewed appreciation for the brilliant things that surround us every single day.


Don't miss this truly special production. Join Swamplight Theatre for Every Brilliant Thing on September 12, 13, 19, & 20, and discover the profound joy that lies in life’s simplest moments.


Given the unique thrust staging and limited seating, patrons are strongly encouraged to purchase their tickets early. This is an unparalleled opportunity to witness a truly impactful piece of theatre in a setting designed to maximize its emotional resonance.


Tickets are on sale now – secure your spot for this unique evening that promises to be nothing short of brilliant.


Note: This play contains frank discussions about depression and mental health, and is not recommended for children under 16 years of age.

 
 
 

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