Silo Theatre is known for producing challenging works and Every Brilliant Thing certainly adds to that reputation. It is an edgy production that could be harrowing were it not for its skilful execution, engaging premise and its leading man.
The play is essentially one long monologue with audience members providing occasional characters for the lead to bounce off, and provide a list of every brilliant thing he can think of that is wonderful about our world.
It is a story of a man still grieving for his mother some years after her self-inflicted death. Depression and suicide are difficult subjects to traverse and there are considerable taboos around them. Rather than being overwhelming this play is uplifting. Loss and grief are swaddled in an exciting and joyful appreciation of what life can be like if we embrace gratitude and mindfulness.
It doesn’t shy away from the tragic and devastating results of mental illness, but it is never overt. The mother’s death is alluded to, clues given, impacts mentioned. But this is really a story about coping with grief and loss. By accepting feelings, talking about issues and realising all of us have times in our lives where we are lost, we have both a way of accepting loss and also a chance to change things.
Jason Te Kare is extraordinary in his performance, seamlessly playing a small boy and a still confused adult trying to make sense of the tragedy that befell his family when he was aged 7. He takes the audience through a journey that jumps in time and gambols from light to dark to light again adroitly.
It is strange to say this, but Every Brilliant Thing is a play that is a delight to watch even with its dark moments and difficult premise. The message it delivers is a simple one. Life is about living – fully, honestly and gratefully.
EVERY BRILLIANT THING
5 November – 6 December 2020
Samoa House, 283 Karangahape Road, Auckland
For more information and bookings click here.
Silo Theatre advises: If Every Brilliant Thing raises any concerns for you following the performance, Lifeline Aotearoa offers a 24/7 helpline and textline counselling service and can be reached at 0800 543 354 or text HELP (4357) for free, 24/7, confidential support. Additional information can be found on their website www.lifeline.org.nz. Other services which may be of assistance include mental health advocacy organisation, Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (www.mentalhealth.org.nz), and youth mental health organisation, Youthline (www.youthline.co.nz, 0800 376 633). You may also consider speaking to a trusted source or engaging your local GP.
