A star rating of 3 out of 5.
Please be aware, this content discusses thoughts about suicide which could potentially disturb some readers.
Lenny Henry’s performance in Every Brilliant Thing presents an engaging contrast – a renowned humorist delving into a narrative steeped in sorrow, melancholy, and thoughts of suicide. This illustrates that while we may project happiness on the outside, our inner emotions can be vastly different.
The story unfolds around Henry’s character, starting from when he is seven years old. He initiates a collection of “every marvelous thing” to support both himself and his mother who faces severe depression. This list begins in a light-hearted manner – like the entry about ice cream at age seven – and eventually grows into a million items as the years pass by.
The production benefits significantly from Henry’s approachable performance style. As a performer, his genuine warmth and comedic sensibilities effectively convey the play’s underlying theme: that happiness can sometimes be merely an illusion, with those who seem cheerful often hiding deep-seated pain. This interpretation serves as a poignant reminder, particularly given the nature of the content.
The success or failure of Every Brilliant Thing significantly relies on audience interaction. Throughout the play, certain audience members are invited to read items from a list aloud or even play minor characters such as teachers, loved ones, or veterinarians.
Each presentation possesses its own distinctive flavor, with certain spectators bonding seamlessly, whereas others struggle to catch signals. Since not all participants receive a guide, the event might seem accidental, creating an electrifying atmosphere for some, while leaving others feeling unsettled.
The drama touches on the sensitive topics of mental health and suicide, but it seems to scratch the surface rather than delve deeply into these issues. The recurring theme of acknowledging life’s minor pleasures leads one to wonder: Is this list intended as a celebration or merely a means of coping? Regrettably, the play fails to provide a definitive answer, leaving the audience puzzled.
occasionally, crucial moments that hold emotional significance are hurried through; for instance, the sudden jump in numbers on a list skips over years worth of character growth. The transition from being a child to becoming an adult – from grieving over a lost pet to losing a parent – can feel abrupt and somewhat insincere.
As a supporter, I found the show to be a delightful blend of heartfelt sincerity and hilarious antics, but at times, it seemed like the comedic elements overpowered the deeper emotional resonance intended. Moments of easy laughter, often triggered by Henry’s witty jokes or interactions with the audience, occasionally detracted from the intended fragility of the character, potentially trivialized rather than reinforcing it. Sometimes, these moments disrupt the flow of the story and diminish its intimacy, causing the character to become somewhat lost in the process. For a production lasting 85 minutes, there appears to be an abundance of applause and audience participation sequences, which can dilute the emotional trajectory of the piece.
In simpler terms, this version seems to resemble a presentation by Lenny Henry rather than delving deep into the character’s complex inner struggles between aimlessness and self-reflection.
Characters such as Mrs. Patterson and her sock puppet Graham, while adding charm, don’t quite tie the story together effectively. The minimal lighting and plain production reflect the text’s frankness, but also create an unsettled feeling, similar to when our thoughts sometimes wander.
Every audience member may interpret Every Brilliant Thing uniquely based on their personal connection to the portrayed themes. This diversity adds to its allure, yet presents a challenge as well. Some viewers might leave feeling moved, while others might be puzzled. The play skims over many aspects and doesn’t delve deeply into the complexities of suicide and mental health issues. It hints at the hardships hidden beneath life’s bright facades, but at times appears fragmented and superficial, falling short of delivering the emotional closure it suggests.
For a range of offers on theatre tickets, check out the TopMob Theatre Pass.
Whenever you need someone to talk to, the Samaritans are there for you round the clock. You can reach them at no cost by calling 116 123, sending an email to jo@samaritans.org, or visiting their website to find your local branch.
When and where can I see Every Brilliant Thing?
Until the 8th of November 2025, the play “Every Brilliant Thing” can be seen at the Soho Place in London. The performance showcases a diverse group of talented actors taking turns on stage.
- Lenny Henry
- Jonny Donahoe (Original Co-Creator)
- Ambika Mod
- Sue Perkins
- Minnie Driver
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2025-08-15 12:36