Tracee Ellis Ross is set to make her Broadway debut this summer in the solo production Every Brilliant Thing. Ross will perform at the Hudson Theatre from July 7 through August 9.
The production, written by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe, centers on a character who maintains a list of thousands of joyful things. Ross joins a rotating cast that includes Daniel Radcliffe, who stars through May 24 and Mariska Hargitay, who will perform from May 26 to June 28.
An Interactive Theatrical Experience
Every Brilliant Thing is designed as a highly engaging experience, requiring the sole actor to move through the aisles and interact directly with the audience. The performer asks viewers to read lines and briefly conscripts them as co-stars during the show.
A critic from TheaterMania described the performance as “a mixture of TED Talk, improv, and interactivity.”
Did You Know? After officially opening on March 12, the producers of Every Brilliant Thing announced on May 6 that the show had recouped its entire initial investment of $5.75 million.
Production and Pedigree
The show is directed by Jeremy Herrin and Macmillan. The creative team includes scenic and costume designer Vicki Mortimer, lighting designer Jack Knowles, and sound designer Tom Gibbons.
Ross brings significant acclaim to the role, having previously starred in Girlfriends and the hit ABC sitcom Black-ish. Her work on Black-ish earned her a Golden Globe Award and five NAACP Image Awards.
Expert Insight: The transition of high-profile television stars like Ross into solo Broadway roles suggests a strategic move to leverage established screen audiences for interactive, high-risk theatrical formats. The fact that the production has already recouped its initial investment likely provides the financial security necessary to experiment with such a rotating cast of A-list talent.
Future Outlook
Because the production has already recovered its initial $5.75 million investment, the producers may be more inclined to consider further extensions. The success of the rotating cast model could also serve as a blueprint for future solo shows seeking to maintain momentum through celebrity casting.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Tracee Ellis Ross perform in Every Brilliant Thing?
Ross will perform at the Hudson Theatre from July 7 to August 9.
Who are the other actors starring in the production?
The show currently stars Daniel Radcliffe through May 24, followed by Mariska Hargitay from May 26 to June 28.
What is the premise of the play?
It is a solo show about a person who keeps a list of thousands of joyful things.
Would you be more likely to attend a Broadway show if it featured an interactive element where the audience becomes part of the performance?
