Things I Know to be True: genre

Style and Genre of ‘Things I Know to Be True’

‘Things I Know To Be True’ is recognised as a fusion of styles, incorporating elements of drama, physical theatre, and movement.
This is a contemporary piece, first performed in Adelaide, Australia in 2016.
Known for its realistic setting, the play is a modern drama featuring the working class Price family from Adelaide’s Hallett Cove.
Renowned playwright Andrew Bovell wrote the piece, famous for his contributions to social realist theatre.

‘Things I Know to Be True’ utilises aspects of physical theatre, with segments of the story told through body movements to introduce metaphorical aspects.
This was possible through a collaboration with Frantic Assembly, a British theatre group known globally for their works in physical theatre.
The storytelling in the play is non-linear, with an episodic and fragmented style that presents a multi-narrative form.

The play, despite depicting a family drama, touches on the universal themes of love, loss, and heartbreak.
It uses tragicomedy, mixing tragic and comic elements throughout.
The use of monologues delivered directly to the audience forms part of the brechtian style employed in the play, often referred to as breaking the fourth wall.
A symbolic realism approach is used, with objects, settings and actions having meanings beyond their obvious appearance.

Although ‘Things I Know to Be True’ greatly revolves around domestic drama, it subtly includes political elements, commenting on social and economic issues such as struggles of the working class.
Additionally, it explores the complexities of truth, relationships, and identity through a stylistic and nuanced storytelling approach.