Review: ‘Things I Know To Be True’ at Heath Ledger Theatre
Things I Know To Be True at Heath Ledger Theatre
Wednesday, May 31, 2023
9/10
Black Swan State Theatre Company has brought another gripping production to Heath Ledger Theatre, with their latest work Things I Know To Be True.
A staging of Andrew Bovell’s 2016 work, the play offers a ‘peek’ behind the troubled curtain of suburban family life, into the relationships and struggles of the Prices, a family of six who each grapple with the irreconcilability of personal identity, and familial love.
Black Swan’s staging of this deeply contemplative exploration of trauma, love and loss, interspersed with regular moments of light-hearted brevity and laugh-out-loud comedy, masterfully captured, and gently breathed life into every character, relationship and conflict. This created a highly dynamic, and affecting reflection of complex family experiences, which were altogether indistinguishable from their ‘real life’ inspirations.
The natural feel of the show was a testament to the seamless interactions and dynamics between each member of the talented six-person cast, each of whom delivered complex, multifaceted characters. Caroline Brazier’s performance as Fran, the often stern, and overly involved family matriarch, was captivating, pivoting between being utterly dislikable, and completely endearing and sympathetic in her struggle to connect with her children. Joining Brazier was Humphrey Bower, the endearingly optimistic, and inwardly dissonant Bob, and Emma Jackson, Kaz Kane, Will O’Mahony and Laura Shaw as the four adult children.
A special commendation must be given to the set design of the play. Set around a revolving pair of classic Australian glass sliding doors, marking the barrier between the family home and the outside world, including the family’s beloved garden, the evocation of movement and dynamism was as intriguing as the action itself.
For a play brimming with loud emotions of anger, resentment, fear and misplaced love, Things I Know To Be True found its impact most strongly in the silences and stillness that it bred between lines, between people and between scenes. A testament to the director Kate Champion’s ability to draw out moments of quiet after conflict, and give weight to unspoken feelings on stage, the power of this play resides strongly in the deeply contemplative moments that it deliberately leaves, for both characters and the audiences.
Things I Know To Be True was a truly breathtaking piece of contemporary theatre that expertly balanced humour, with heartfelt social commentary, and moments of devastating reality. For those seeking theatre that will leave you laughing, crying, reeling, and pondering for days, this not a performance to miss.
BEC WELDON
Photos by Daniel J Grant
