Every Brilliant Thing debuts in Northland

A show tackling the dark topic of depression and suicide peppered with comedy is set to charm Northland audiences this week.

Described by the Guardian as, “One of the funniest plays you’ll ever see about depression — and possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see, full stop”, Every Brilliant Thing is visiting Whangarei and Hokianga.

Originally created by a UK writer, Auckland-based Silo Theatre has culturally-adapted the play and bringing it to Northland as part of its New Zealand tour.

Founder and trustee of OneOneSix Laurel Devenie saw the show in Auckland and was instrumental in bringing it north.

“I knew immediately it would appeal to audiences here — it is accessible, delicate and quite irresistible. It touches on current, challenging conversations and appeals to a huge age range. OneOneSix is excited to be finally hosting a work from Silo Theatre who are one of New Zealand’s leading contemporary professional theatre companies.”

The 75 minute, heart-warming show has a cast of one — seasoned performer Jason Te Kare — and his audience, who are seated wrapped around the stage.

Described as a “warm, deep hug”, the show is about depression, loss, and discovering beautiful moments.

While the actor and audience together recount every brilliant thing on an ever-expanding and lifeaffirming list, Te Kare’s character recounts his own struggles balancing the light against the dark.

Every Brilliant Thing opens tomorrow at 7pm and runs until Saturday at OneOneSix Bank St, Whangarei, and the Rawene Town Hall on May 15. Tickets from eventfinda.