Words: Elodie Marriott

4 stars

What would you put on your list of Every Brilliant Thing? Ten years on since the one-man show’s debut, Rollercoasters, Super Mario, and People Falling Over are still quite brilliant, especially for a seven-year-old. Starring Jonny Donahoe, the list is created to comfort his mum who suffers with depression, but as he grows older it turns into a way to soothe himself. The brilliant things mature into Songs That Match How You’re Feeling, Christopher Walken’s Voice (And Hair), and Falling in Love.

Sitting in the round with the lights on, it’s possible to see everyone at all times. At first you may feel a bit vulnerable, especially as Donahoe keeps casting roles like Dad and Husband from the crowd, but then it becomes comfortable. On cue, people shout out brilliant things and we all laugh in agreement. The show manages to connect all these strangers through shared love for Spaghetti Bolognese or The Sight Of Older Couples Holding Hands. It highlights how similar we all are, that there is always common ground if you care enough to find it. What a vital and timely lesson for us all to be reminded of.

For entry number one million and one, Jonny Donahoe can add standing ovation to his list of Every Brilliant Thing.

Every Brilliant Thing
ROUNDABOUT @ Summerhall
Various times
Aug 8-12, 14-19, 21-24