Things I Know to Be True

The four siblings, Pip, Rose, Ben, and Jess, have grown accustomed to being part of a tightly-knit family unit, bound by the love and expectations of their parents, Bob and Fran. For years, the family has been a cohesive whole, with Bob working tirelessly in his workshop and Fran being the glue that holds everything together. As the children grow older, they begin to assert their independence, questioning the authority of their parents and seeking their own paths in life. The story is initially told through vignettes of the family's lives, showcasing the intricate web of relationships that binds them together. From Jess's struggles with infertility and the disappointment it brings, to Rose's complicated marriage and Ben's feelings of resentment towards his parents, each sibling must confront the harsh realities of adulthood and the weight of their family's legacy. Through a series of intense and emotionally charged scenes, the family's dynamics are laid bare for all to see. Bob, a self-proclaimed "loving dictator," is seen attempting to exert control over his family, often to little avail. His wife, Fran, struggles to maintain a sense of order and normalcy, but is increasingly exasperated by her husband's antics. As the family navigates these complex emotions, the siblings find themselves grappling with their own identities and the sense of self they've inherited from their parents. Pip, the responsible and level-headed sibling, feels an overwhelming sense of duty to his family, while Rose and Ben struggle to assert their individuality. At the heart of the story is the relationship between Bob and Fran. After decades of marriage, they're forced to confront the reality that their children are leaving the nest and their roles as parents are being slowly phased out. This sense of loss and disorientation serves as a poignant reminder that, as the seasons change, so too must the family unit adapt and evolve. Through its use of physical theater and innovative staging, the play masterfully captures the intensity and intimacy of family relationships. The performances are raw and unflinching, with each actor bringing a depth and nuance to their portrayal. As the family hurtles towards a series of pivotal moments, the lines between truth and fiction begin to blur. In a heart-wrenching climax, Bob and Fran are forced to confront the harsh realities of their children's lives and the impermanence of their family's unity. In a beautiful and poignant conclusion, the family comes together, their bonds stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity. Things I Know To Be True is a poignant and powerful exploration of family dynamics, love, and identity. It's a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to define themselves beyond the expectations of others. Through its innovative staging and stunning performances, the play masterfully captures the complexities and intensity of family relationships, offering a profoundly human portrait of a family in transition.