Only from July 24 to August 9 at the Orillia Opera House
Get ready for an extraordinary theatre experience at the Orillia Opera House! The critically acclaimed play “Every Brilliant Thing” is set to grace the stage with its unique blend of humor and heart, captivating audiences from July 24 to August 9.
Please note that this article discusses suicidal depression. The Canada Suicide Prevention Service line is available 24/7 at 1-833-456-4566.
Having won over audiences in London, New York, and several theatres across Ontario, “Every Brilliant Thing” now comes to Orillia in a brand-new production. This play, penned by playwright Duncan Macmillan and actor Jonny Donahoe, tackles the profound topic of suicidal depression with an unexpected twist—through laughter and storytelling.
Starring Dora Award-winning actor Matt Pilipiak, who wowed Orillia audiences last year in the sold-out show “Bed and Breakfast,” this production promises to be both touching and uplifting. Artistic director Jesse Collins shares, “Though the back story for this is very serious, Matt is able to weave us through a journey that keeps us laughing, engaged, thoughtful at times—but most of all inspired. Nothing is trivialized. It’s a serious topic explored using a primary tool of theatre: comedy. I can’t recall anything quite like it and yet it is exactly the kind of story and character-based theatre that our audiences love at the OOH.”
The narrative begins with Pilipiak’s character reminiscing about his childhood, when he started a list of every small thing that made life wonderful to help his mother during her bouts of crushing depression. This list grows and evolves, reflecting his life’s journey and engaging the audience in simple yet profound ways.
Directed by Fiona Sauder, a frequent collaborator with Pilipiak, this play instantly transforms the audience into a community. Sauder, a multi-Dora award-winning director, returns to the Opera House after directing Pilipiak in “Bed and Breakfast.” Since then, her company, Bad Hats Theatre, has been lauded for its productions in Toronto and Winnipeg, and will embark on a Canadian tour of their newest show “Narnia” next year.
The Opera House team is thrilled to present an experience that breaks the mold of traditional theatre. Jesse Collins adds, “We really want folks to know that it’s not intimidating. It’s just welcoming. No matter the mood you’re in when you arrive—even if it’s a terrific one—you’ll leave the theatre more happy and hopeful than when you came. And you’ll have been entertained. Delightfully entertained.”
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unique and inspiring production. Tickets can be reserved using the button below, or by calling the Box Office at (705) 326-8011.
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Experience the magic of “Every Brilliant Thing” and discover the joy in life’s everyday moments. Get your tickets now!
Extend Your Stay
Mark your calendar for all of these upcoming events. Orillia is home to a variety of hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts in close proximity to waterfront views and lake country experiences. Enjoy wonderful hospitality during your stay, while exploring nearby shopping and dining hubs in the historic city.
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