This February, The Sandbox Collective and 9 Works Theatrical will be staging the first Philippine production of Every Brilliant Thing. Directed by Jenny Jamora and staring Teresa Herrera, this internationally acclaimed Duncan Macmillan one-character play tells the story and perspective of a child who, when faced with their mother’s attempt in taking her own life, writes a list of things in the world that makes life worth living.
While mental health awareness is a growing topic here in the Philippines, stigma against mental and emotional condition is still a reality in our culture. It is a no-joke matter that millions of people face every day and it’s important to spark conversations on the topic in safe spaces and forms, producing in a comical yet mannerly humerous way – through the every-fascinating beauty of art, an experience wherein openness, building relationships through participation is greatly influenced and The Sandbox Collective aims to do just that with their upcoming theatrical production.
In a tasteful mix of heartfelt monologues and comedic audience dynamics. Every Brilliant Thing aims to start an honest and unflinchingly raw discussion not only on people with experience of mental and emotional concerns, but also on the capacity of the human spirit to find happiness in even the smallest things. This play holds a unique format wherein the audiences are included in the performance as the lead character breaks through the fourth wall and interacts with the viewers as the narrative plays out.
Unique to this play are its post-show discussions wherein The Sandbox Collective invites several mental health experts to have a dialogue about the topic for the audiences. This allows the theme of mental health to be further understood and explored in the space of openness, acceptance, and healing. They will also be promoting support groups, suicide hotlines, mental health consultations, and various coping mechanisms to raise awareness with audiences.
Every Brilliant Thing has been staged in locations across the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, South Korea, and even filmed for an HBO documentary back in 2016. Manila will be added to the list on February 2 as Sandbox and 9 Works bring the play to life locally at Zobel de Ayala Hall, Maybank Performing Arts Theater, along 26th Street corner 9th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City. Tickets are now available at ticketworld.com.ph.