Join

ARTfactory to Present Critically Acclaimed One-Man Play, ‘Every Brilliant Thing

Kemp and Johnson [Submitted phtoto]
The ARTfactory’s Actors Theatre will bring Every Brilliant Thing to the stage in an intimate, thought-provoking performance at the end of February. This one-man show, written by Duncan Macmillan with Jonny Donohoe, masterfully blends humor and heartache as it explores themes of joy, despair, and resilience through the eyes of a single storyteller.

The play follows a child who begins compiling a list of “every brilliant thing” worth living for—ice cream, water fights, staying up late—after their mother’s suicide attempt. As the child matures, the list continues, evolving into a deeply moving reflection on love, mental illness, and human connection.

Directed by ARTfactory Producing Artistic Director Kimberly Kemp, the production stars David Johnson as the storyteller. Johnson, a longtime ARTfactory actor and director, has had his sights set on this play for years. “I remember (in 2017) telling the theatre arts director of the ARTfactory about this breathtakingly beautiful play and how badly I wanted to do it in the theatre on the third floor of the ARTfactory,” Johnson states in a press release. The project finally came to fruition when Kemp expressed her desire to direct it in 2022.

Johnson has experienced the loss of a young performer from ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre program and likened him to the play’s protagonist. “He reminded me of the character because he was so fearless in his creativity and expression,” Johnson said. He also referenced the loss of actor Robin Williams, a world-renowned entertainer who privately battled depression. Johnson hopes to encourage open conversations about mental health and seek support through this production.

Initially performed in 2013 at the Ludlow Fringe Festival, Every Brilliant Thing gained widespread acclaim for its poignant storytelling. It premiered in North America in 2014 at New York City’s Barrow Street Theatre and earned a Lucille Lortel Award nomination for Outstanding Solo Show.

The ARTfactory’s production will be staged in an intimate in-the-round setting, enhancing audience engagement. While the play incorporates optional audience participation, attendees can enjoy the performance with or without direct involvement. However, given its subject matter, audience members should be aware that the play discusses themes of depression and suicide.

Performances will occur on February 28 and March 1 at 7:30 p.m. and March 2 at 2 p.m. in the Wind River Theater at the ARTfactory. Tickets are available for purchase at virginiaartfactory.org.

Recent Stories

STAFFORD, Va. – Stafford County residents gathered at the Armed Services Memorial on Friday, May 23, 2025, for the county’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony, a time to honor and remember those who gave their lives in service to the nation.

MANASSAS PARK, Va. – Community members gathered at City Hall on Friday afternoon to pay tribute to the nation’s fallen service members during a Memorial Day Flag Ceremony.

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – A crash involving a tractor-trailer and another vehicle has shut down two of the three southbound lanes of Interstate 95 in Caroline County.

OCCOQUAN, Va. – A downed tree and a blown transformer caused road closures and power outages in the Town of Occoquan on Friday evening, prompting a quick response from town officials and utility crews.

The most anticipated night of the year is almost here! This Saturday, May 31, step into the romance, elegance, and charm of Paris—without ever leaving Washington, DC.

Join us for An Evening in Paris, an unforgettable soirée celebrating the best of French culture. Experience an immersive evening filled with gourmet French cuisine, refined wines, captivating live music, and the irresistible ambiance of the City of Light. Whether you’re a lifelong Francophile or simply love a night of sophistication, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss.

✨ Highlights of the evening include:

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Your Weight Matters National Convention

Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.

This unique Convention truly has something

Van Metre 5K Run

Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has

×

Subscribe to our mailing list