In something of a local cultural coup, New Beginnings is featuring two theater pieces by internationally renowned comedy duo, Jonny Donohoe and Paddy Gervers, as part of its Annual Fundraiser running October 23 to 26. Legends in their native UK, Donohoe and Gervers are renowned for their razor-sharp wit, poignant story telling and unique ability to entertainingly illuminate mental health issues.
The first show, Jonny and the Baptists, is the highly anticipated US Premiere of their new musical comedy that delves into the links between personal tragedy, grief and hope. Praised for its mix of post-modern absurdity, unflinching honesty and anthemic musical numbers, the artists state that the production is “about friendship, coping together and finding joy in the darkest moments. We’re honored to use our work to raise support for the life-saving services that New Beginnings provides.”
After a very successful tour in the UK, the duo chose Santa Barbara as the location for their US premiere, citing their personal connection with New Beginnings, having performed previously at the fundraiser in 2022. The Sunday Post described the show as, “An Hour of Glorious Chaos, Must-See.”
The second show, Every Brilliant Thing, is a critically lauded play that has become a global theater phenomenon, playing more than 600 times across four continents. It follows the emotional journey of a child who, to lift his depressed mother’s spirits, begins a heartfelt list of the small joys that make life worth living. The play explores the extraordinary ways we care for the people we love. Moreover, it is inventively structured and staged and will appeal to theater afficionados.
Every Brilliant Thing is coming fresh off a wildly successful run in London’s West End at the Soho Theater. The Evening Standard said, “It’s a unique show with the texture of theater but the communal immediacy of stand-up” and Theater and Tonic raved, “This is a truly poignant powerhouse of a show which reminds you of the sheer joy of being alive and finding splendour and beauty in the ordinary things.” The filmed version on Netflix received a 100% Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes.
A unique non-profit event
New Beginnings has a rich history of using live shows to put a human face on issues like mental health and homelessness, transforming what could be “just another fundraiser” into an emotionally engaging and thoroughly enjoyable evening. As New Beginnings Executive Director, Kristine Schwarz notes, “Through engaging narratives, we can break down the psychological barriers that often prevent individuals from understanding or acting on these issues.”
In the spirit of community engagement, tickets are affordably priced at $53 (including service charge) for most shows and includes a post-show reception. The Saturday show includes a post-show party, with wine and appetizers, music and the opportunity to meet Jonny and Paddy. It is priced at $106.
There are also sponsor opportunities starting at $500.
The performances promise to be very special evenings. You will laugh, you may cry, you will be moved, and, more importantly, you will be helping New Beginnings help others.
The Performances
Jonny & The Baptists – U.S. Premiere
Starring Jonny Donahoe and Paddy Gervers
Written by Jonny Donahoe and Paddy Gervers
Duration: 1 hr 15 minutes
Preview Show: Thursday, October 23 at 7:00 PM (All Seats are $53)
Premiere Show: Saturday, October 25 at 7:30 PM (All Seats are $106)
Location: Center Stage Theater, 751 Paseo Nuevo, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Complimentary guest reception including appetizers and wine following each show
Every Brilliant Thing
Starring Jonny Donahoe
Written by Duncan Macmillan with Jonny Donahoe
Duration: 1 hr. 15 minutes
Friday, October 24 at 7:00 PM (All Seats are $53)
Sunday, October 26 at 2:00 PM (All Seats are $53)
Location: Center Stage Theater, 751 Paseo Nuevo, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Complimentary guest reception including appetizers and wine following each show
To Buy Tickets or Become a Sponsor
Go to the New Beginnings Website to buy tickets or become a sponsor: https://sbnbcc.org/new-beginnings-2025-annual-fundraiser/ OR
Go directly to the Center Stage Theater website for tickets: https://www.ticketor.com/cstheater/tickets?pageid=168428 OR
Contact New Beginnings: Leana Orsua, 805-963-7777 ext. 112 or email development@sbnbcc.org
About New Beginnings Counseling Center:
Founded in 1968, New Beginnings Counseling Center is a Santa Barbara-based nonprofit dedicated to providing accessible, affordable mental health services to individuals and families, veterans and vehicle-dwellers in need.
Through counseling, case management and housing services, New Beginnings supports people struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, homelessness and other challenges, providing care that is both accessible and transformative.
Services are available to all residents of Santa Barbara County and reach over 2,000 clients annually.
“Our community is facing a mental health crisis and New Beginnings is on the front lines every single day” say Kristine Schwarz, Executive Director. “This gala is not just an event – it’s a call to action.”
About Jonny & The Baptists:
Jonny Donahoe and Paddy Gervers are award-winning British comedians and theater artists known for their innovative blend of musical comedy and social commentary. Previous works include Every Brilliant Thing, Stop UKIP, creating a nationwide legacy of inspiring, humorous, and heartfelt performances.
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