Can a Play Truly Be Nonfiction and What It Means for Storytelling
When pondering the concept of a play being nonfiction, two diametrically opposed viewpoints emerge. Some argue that nonfiction plays are indeed a valid and impactful genre that blends factual storytelling with theatrical elements. Others vehemently claim that the very notion is an oxymoron. This article delves into the nuances of both perspectives, aiming to provide a comprehensive insight into the world of nonfiction plays and their role in modern storytelling.
The Case for Nonfiction Plays
Yes, a play can be nonfiction, and it can be exceptionally powerful. Nonfiction plays often focus on real events, historical figures, or factual narratives. These plays may take the form of documentaries, biographical dramas, or adaptations of nonfiction texts. The underlying principle is to blend the truth of real life with the artistry of theater to create compelling and thought-provoking productions.
Examples of Nonfiction Plays
The Laramie Project
This play is based on interviews with residents of Laramie, Wyoming, following the murder of Matthew Shepard. It explores themes of hate, acceptance, and community response. This piece is a powerful example of how nonfiction plays can delve into deeply personal and sensitive topics, providing a platform for real voices and stories.
A Raisin in the Sun
While it is a fictional narrative, it draws heavily from Hansberry's own family experiences and the real social issues faced by African Americans in the mid-20th century. The play serves as a microcosm of broader societal issues, blending reality with storytelling to create a nuanced and relatable character study.
The Crucible
Although a dramatization of the Salem witch trials, this play serves as an allegory for McCarthyism. It addresses real historical events and societal issues, using fiction to shed light on the darker aspects of human history and the dangers of unchecked power.
Nonfiction plays can provide powerful commentary on social, political, or historical contexts, blending factual storytelling with theatrical elements.
The Case Against Nonfiction Plays
Opponents argue that nonfiction and drama are fundamentally contradictory. They believe that the term "nonfiction drama" is an oxymoron, contradicting the very essence of drama, which relies on fiction and imagination. Critics of nonfiction plays often claim that the blending of fact and fiction obscures the boundaries of reality and truth, potentially leading to a lack of verisimilitude.
Intermingling Fact and Fiction
Nonfiction plays, however, often blur these boundaries through creative techniques such as amalgamating real people into fictional characters, blending multiple anecdotes into a cohesive narrative, and using improvisation to capture raw emotions. Successful nonfiction plays like The Laramie Project and A Raisin in the Sun highlight the power of intertwining real stories with artistic expression.
Contemporary Examples: Good People and Come From Away
Good People
Good People by Jeff Daniels is a recent example of a nonfiction play that became a Broadway hit. It delves into the ordinary lives of a small-town as a way to explore larger themes about human nature, morality, and the intricacies of personal relationships. While rooted in real stories, the play uses fiction to emphasize key themes and convey universal truths.
Come From Away
Come From Away is a musical based on events in the first few days after 9/11. It was inspired by an NPR radio piece about the town of Gander, Newfoundland, which served as unexpected but kind hosts to thousands of grounded passengers. The creative team then took themselves to Newfoundland, did their own interviews, and created a show based on the facts of the week. This blend of real-life events and artistic interpretation has resonated with audiences, proving that nonfiction plays can be both factual and engaging.
These examples demonstrate how nonfiction plays can retain the resonance of real events while still allowing for the flexibility of a staged narrative.
The Impact of Nonfiction Plays
Nonfiction plays offer a unique way to engage audiences with real-world issues through the lens of drama. They can provide a platform for underrepresented voices, spark important conversations, and offer insight into historical or social contexts. By combining factual storytelling with theatrical elements, nonfiction plays can create powerful and memorable productions.
Ultimately, whether a play can be genuine nonfiction is a matter of perspective. While some argue that nonfiction and drama are inherently contradictory, the success of nonfiction plays like The Laramie Project, A Raisin in the Sun, and Come From Away show that when executed effectively, blending fact and fiction can create impactful and transformative art.