Reviews of "Every Brilliant Thing"
"Brilliant? Let us list the ways ... Lamb rocks the audience in a cradle of good nature and easiness. Everyone identifies with him, and everyone wants him to succeed: He’s Everyman, except a little better." -Oregon ArtsWatch
"Portland Center Stage's production is both tear-jerking and playful. Most of all it's life-affirming. And it's now officially on my list of brilliant things." -BroadwayWorld
"A playful, unapologetically sentimental play ... Every Brilliant Thing succeeds thanks to Lamb's everyman affability as well as its communal spirit." -Willamette Week
"Lamb’s engaging performance about sober truths gains balance and depth with some help from friends. ... the entire production comes off with empathy, grace, and not a few belly laughs." -Judy Nedry
"Lamb is a treasure ... He is perfectly at ease as he breathes life into this character and as he handles the audience. ... I recommend this production." -Dennis Sparks
"Isaac Lamb effortlessly exudes effervescence. (Ah, alliteration.) ... we are "with" him the whole way." -The Crippled Critic
Here's what reviewers in other cities have said about this play:
“Heart-wrenching, hilarious ... possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see, full stop.” -The Guardian
"simultaneously funny and poignant" -The Hollywood Reporter
"Something miraculous happens in Every Brilliant Thing. Something you might want to include on your own list of life-enhancing pleasures should you follow the lead of the protagonist, who inventories all that makes the world worthwhile for him." -Los Angeles Times
Here's what audience members are saying on Facebook:
"Riveting"
"An innovative production!"
"A wonderfully written show brilliantly acted and directed."
"[Rose Riordan] and Isaac Lamb have re-ignited my love for live theatre"
"Audience-friendly, family entertainment, beautifully done!"
"I hope you have tickets, because this was an amazing play."
More about Every Brilliant Thing:
"Every Brilliant Thing" Cast and Creative Team
We've assembled a *BRILLIANT* cast and creative team for this powerful play.
The Story Behind "Every Brilliant Thing"
From a favor to a friend to an HBO documentary, explore the making of Every Brilliant Thing.
Current & Upcoming
Improvisation Classes for Beginners
Whether you're looking to get more confident in social situations, think quicker on your feet, or get in touch with your imaginative side, these "one-off" improv classes will set you on the path to success!
Adult Class : TWELFTH NIGHT, Before & After
Join veteran actor Joe Costa for a unique opportunity to take a “deep dive” into both Shakespeare’s text of Twelfth Night, and the PCS Production. Participants will read the play out loud as a group, with “intermissions” provided for lively discussion of themes and content. Interested participants will have a chance to act in selected scenes, guided by the instructor.
Improv Comedy: Love, Shakespeare
Witness the Magic of unscripted Elizabethan comedy! Step into the offbeat world of Love, Shakespeare, where seasoned Portland comedians attempt something audacious: performing a fully improvised Elizabethan play based on your suggestions!
Albina Music Trust presents A Brown Branch Christmas
Celebrate this holiday season with A Brown Branch Christmas at Portland Center Stage. Now in its fourth season, this two-night big band celebration features directors Domo Branch and Charlie Brown III guiding a heavy 15-piece lineup of regional and national musicians.
BIPOC Affinity Night DJ Party with ALoSo
Join us for a double feature BIPOC Affinity Night, featuring a live DJ set by ALoSo, plus holiday craft market vendor tables, art exhibits by Albina Music Trust Wall to Wall Sound and Jason Hill's Favorite Things, with complimentary select drinks provided by Multnomah Whiskey Library and Deschutes Brewery while supplies last.
Winter Teen Academy: Scene Work
Calling all teens! Are you looking to expand your acting skills and be the best scene partner you can be for your fellow actors? In this class, we will dig deep into scene study, character motivation, and active listening, while learning the necessary questions to ask in every rehearsal situation. You'll develop fuller characters and deeper relationships on stage by partnering in scene work — and have lots of fun too!
Portland Center Stage is committed to identifying & interrupting instances of racism & all forms of oppression, through the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, & accessibility (IDEA).
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