Every Brilliant Thing is a collection of the bright points that reflect the small, the large, and the deeply meaningful experiences that brings wonder to life. It is humourous, at times sad, and very moving examination of how we never stop moving and learning.
This is a one-man show with a Narrator (Daniel Brochu). He tells the story of his life beginning at the age of seven when his mother is hospitalized for severe depression. He later learns that she had attempted suicide. Her illness would last many years and it deeply affected his upbringing. As a means of helping his mother, he makes a list of “brilliant” things, things that a child finds funny and joyful, with ice cream as Number 1. He gives the list to his mother and the results are mixed. But over the years he continues to add to the list, shifting from objects to experiences. The list grows to reflect his coming of age and his own struggles with mental health. In spite of his challenges, he finds courage and wonder with the help of his list.
The show involves audience participation. Mr. Brochu is energetic, engaging, and generous. He presents the text as an open book of vivid recollections, strength through hardships, and a sense of hope for the future. He makes the audience feel safe (and COVID safe) to participate in the story. The result is a sense of community and shared joys that reminds us that life is shared and not a self-enclosed bubble.
The set is simple and from the period of the 70’s, giving a sense of sitting in the Narrator’s old living room, the starting point of his life. The floor design is a gorgeous graphic, also reminiscent of the period. Music, especially soul and jazz, effectively play a role in the Narrator’s memories, including some members of the audience.
As we slowly emerge from our bubbles, we can marvel at how things we once took for granted are still so beautiful. These sensations can be from enjoying coffee to the epiphany of love and friendships blooming. Whether it is with gratitude journals or just random notes, it wouldn’t hurt to take stock of what makes us smile and grow.
Photo credit: Leslie Schachter
Every Brilliant Thing. Directed by Dean Patrick Fleming. Show continues until November 14, at Segal Centre, 5170 Chemin de la Côte-Ste-Catherine, Montreal. Call the box office 514-739-7944 or go to www.segalcentre.org . For COVID Protocols, please go to https://segalcentre.org/en/coronavirus
