'A Compelling Portrayal of Family Life' at Putney Arts Theatre
Paul Benton reviews Things I Know to be True by Andrew Bovell
The current production at the Putney Arts Theatre is a hugely engrossing play set in contemporary Australia. The play is set in the back yard of the family house. Over a period of a year we observe a close-knit family that have not only mutual respect but intense adoration for one another.
This is a a compelling portrayal of family life complete with touching affection and good natured banter and one that reveals each character to be as complicated below the surface as they appear not to be, above. Through the changing seasons we see a family navigating a series of traumatic revelations and the resulting ramifications for family relationships.
The audience sit on three sides of the stage and as a result are brought close to the action. The solid performances of the cast, directed by Frances Bodiam, are both affecting and believable. The simple set, effective lighting and projections all aid the feeling of immersion in this family’s life.
The re-occurring themes of the play, love, escape, betrayal of trust, forgiveness and ageing takes the audience on a journey that is not only hugely entertaining but entirely thought provoking as we are left to reflect on our own family relationships.
Paul Benton
The plays run from 5 - 9 November at 7.45pm at the Putney Arts Theatre
November 8, 2019