"Structured over four seasons, we witness the domestic, hilarious, and often chaotic lives of parents Fran and Bob, with their four adult children...The idea of the nuclear family is challenged in this play, and I think it's a necessary provocation for our times. As our social and political values evolve, so does the idea of what makes up a 'happy family'... " We chat to director Kitan Petkovski about the relatable, complexities of the nuclear family who take centre stage in his up coming production of Things I Know To Be True, playing at Theatre Works 19 April - 4 May.
Q: Without revealing too much, what is Things I Know To Be True about?
A: Things I know to be True is a story about family and the testament of unconditional love. Structured over four seasons, we witness the domestic, hilarious, and often chaotic lives of parents Fran and Bob, with their four adult children. The play asks us: can we love too much and when is love not enough?
Q: What fascinates you most about the nuclear family appearing on stage?
A: I think the Price family will resonate with many families out there, especially working class parents who only want the best for their children. The idea of the nuclear family is challenged in this play, and I think it's a necessary provocation for our times. As our social and political values evolve, so does the idea of what makes up a 'happy family' and whether a nuclear family should even be something we aspire to. I love how this is debated in the play between the children and their parents, their generational differences in understanding often remind me of conversations I have with my own parents!
Q: What are some key themes explored in this work?
A: This play is packed with themes that are inherent within any family home: growing up, moving out, love, heartbreak, secrets, sacrifice, parenting, employment, retirement - you name it! The Price family also experience a lot of hurt, and one of the key themes that I am drawn to explore is healing.
Q: What have you most enjoyed about the development and rehearsal period so far?
A: The conversations we've had in the room and the stories we have shared about our own families has been a highlight. I love this part of the creative process. Many of us have not worked together before, and we often have very limited time to get to know each other and build trust. It's through these long-form conversations that we discover commonalities and begin to unpack the play together.
Q: Who do you think this production will resonate with the most?
A: I think this play is for any parent and any child. So I guess that makes it for everyone?