Second Half Productions, in association with Nica Burns and Paines Plough, has announced the West End premiere of Every Brilliant Thing, the acclaimed one-person play by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe. Directed by Jeremy Herrin and Macmillan, the production will run at the @sohoplace theatre from 1 August to 27 September 2025, featuring an impressive rotating cast that includes Lenny Henry, Jonny Donahoe, Ambika Mod and Sue Perkins.
Originally premiering at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2014, Every Brilliant Thing has toured over 80 countries and was adapted into an HBO special. Now, for the first time, this poignant and uplifting story arrives in the West End. Each actor will perform the piece solo, bringing a unique voice to its moving narrative about mental health, hope, and the everyday joys that make life worth living.
The run begins with Sir Lenny Henry (1–30 August), followed by co-creator Jonny Donahoe (13 August–1 September), then Ambika Mod (2–26 September), and concludes with Sue Perkins (4–27 September). Press nights are scheduled for each performer, starting with Henry on 7 August.
Set design is by Vicki Mortimer, with lighting by Jack Knowles, sound by Tom Gibbons and casting by Jessica Ronane CDG. Tickets are now on sale via sohoplace.org, with 50 tickets per performance available at just £35.
“Duncan’s brilliant script celebrates the importance of finding joy in the everyday,” said Lenny Henry. “I can’t wait to perform this important play in the intimate setting of @sohoplace.”
Donahoe added, “It’s actually, properly BRILLIANT to finally bring Every Brilliant Thing to the West End.”
A touching comedy about a child’s attempt to help a struggling parent by listing every wonderful thing in the world, Every Brilliant Thing grows into a powerful reflection on love, resilience and human connection.
For tickets and performance schedule, visit www.sohoplace.org.
