By Duncan Macmillan with Jonny Donahoe
Directed by Tom Quaintance
A special health and wellness initiative in partnership with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
This immersive experience blends comedy, improv, and audience interaction to tell one individual’s story of growing up in the shadow of their mother’s struggle with suicidal depression while learning to grapple with their own journey and life experiences. Surprisingly charming and delightful, “Every Brilliant Thing” provides a life-affirming jolt of humanism, reminding us that hope comes from life's smallest miracles.
On Stage and Touring
January 10–February 21, 2024
Ticket price
FREE
Location
Jan 10–16:CURRENT ArtSpace + Studio in Downtown Chapel Hill
Please be aware that suicide and depression are central themes of the story and will be handled with care. Resources will be available at the venue. With this consideration in mind along with parental discretion, the story is suitable for patrons ages 8+.
“One of the funniest plays you’ll ever see about depression – and possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see, full stop.”
The Guardian
Every Brilliant Thing is made possible in part through a generous gift from UNC alum Alan Weinhouse. We thank him for his early belief in this project and for his deep support of mental health initiatives at UNC.
Four performers will take turns sharing the story for each performance. Find out who your storyteller will be in our schedule below.
Tour Schedule
We will tour Every Brilliant Thing to all corners of UNC–Chapel Hill, in collaboration with UNC Student Affairs. For UNC students to register for a CLE-approved performance, please register at the following HeelLife events:
The increasing epidemic of mental health decline among young people is a pressing concern, with growing rates of anxiety, depression, and other related disorders. As a theatre in residence at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we understand the importance of providing immediate attention and comprehensive support systems to address this pervasive issue. Our aim is to offer a safe space for students, staff, faculty, and community members that acknowledges the reality of mental wellbeing and inspires hope.
Theatre is a powerful tool for addressing mental health issues among young adults. It offers a platform for creative expression, fosters self-awareness and resilience, and promotes community and understanding. Surprisingly charming and delightful, “Every Brilliant Thing” provides a life-affirming jolt of humanism, reminding us that hope comes from the miracles of life’s minutiae. The aim is to destigmatize conversations around mental health and encourage our audiences to recognize mental health and wellness as a human concern and the wealth of resources and connections that exist here in the University community.
