Bellevue North High School performs Every Brilliant Thing addressing mental health stigma

The Belvidere CUSD 100 Board of Education held a regular meeting on February 6, 2025, where a unique presentation took center stage. The director of theater at Belvoir North High School introduced a segment from the play "Every Brilliant Thing," which addresses themes of mental health, suicide, and joy. This performance was part of the school's initiative to promote mental wellness, coinciding with their acknowledgment of Mental Wellness Month.

The director explained the significance of the play, noting that it explores serious topics in a way that ultimately celebrates life. The production involved collaboration with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which provided support and resources for both the cast and audience. The director emphasized the importance of sharing this story with the community, highlighting that it was a departure from the lighter themes typically presented in school theater.

During the meeting, the audience was engaged with a snippet of the play, where senior Ruth Christie performed a scene that illustrated the protagonist's journey through childhood and the creation of a list of "every brilliant thing" worth living for. This list serves as a coping mechanism for the character, who grapples with the complexities of life and loss.

The director encouraged audience members to participate by responding to prompts during the performance, fostering an interactive experience. At the conclusion of the play, the cast distributed notebooks and pens to the audience, inviting them to create their own lists of what brings them joy, reinforcing the play's message of hope and resilience.

The meeting underscored the school district's commitment to addressing mental health issues and fostering a supportive environment for students and the community. The presentation was well-received, marking a significant step in integrating important social themes into educational programming.