Great Expectations
Synopsis
In Great Expectations we are taken into the world of 19th-century England. Six actors bring to life more than 40 fascinating characters in this enchanting, surprising, funny and occasionally frightening adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale. Pip, an orphan boy, has a life-changing encounter one day when he helps an escaped convict named Magwitch. From this one act of kindness, Pip launches on a journey to that is full of twists and turns. Ultimately, Pip learns some important lessons about love, forgiveness and redemption.
Language
N/A
Smoking, Drinking & Drug Use
Intoxication is briefly mentioned and an instance of social drinking is described and may be theatrically depicted.
Sexual Content
A kiss on the cheek. A song with Victorian-era, bawdy lyrics. The song is comic and cheeky; not explicit.
Violence
Several brief mentions of violence, assault, and execution by hanging. Two instances of threatened violence with a knife. Two theatrically depicted “fights”. One theatrically depicted death in a fire.
For Which Audience
Fans of books by Charles Dickens and Neil Gaiman, TV shows like A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket as well as fans of plays like Peter and the Starcatcher and The Woman in Black
Rating
If this were a movie, it would be rate PG.
Every Brilliant Thing
Synopsis
This life-affirming, surprising and immersive theatrical experience speaks openly about depression, mental illness and suicide. With cathartic humor and joy, this poignant play explores one person’s journey through grief and healing and learning to appreciate all that life has to give.
Possible Triggers
Every Brilliant Thing contains frank discussions of suicide and its impact on families.
For resources related to suicide prevention, see:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
800-273-8255
Language
A single instance of the word “shit”.
Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use
Cigarette smoking and drinking wine is briefly mentioned, though neither is actually depicted. An attempted overdose by the use of over the counter medication is mentioned, though not depicted.
Sexual Content
A kiss and “sex” are both mentioned once in a joyful and romantic context. Neither is depicted or described in detail.
Violence
Death by suicide and attempted suicide are discussed frankly and openly. Details are are touched on very briefly and described in general, non-specific terms.
For Which Audience
Fans of The Moth, This American Life, or the comedy of Mike Birbiglia. Parents of young children should be aware of the serious subjects explored in the play before deciding whether or not it is appropriate. Every Brilliant Thing is potentially suitable for all audiences and can be a springboard to important discussions among all ages.
Rating
If this were a movie, it would be rated PG or PG-13.