The multidisciplinary performance of Glass Child shows the bond between two talented siblings through dance and acting but doesn’t go the distance in saying something profound.
‘Glass child’ is a term for siblings or family members of those with special needs. It implies that this child is secondary, ‘looked through’ and at times transparent or irrelevant to their parents or others when compared to their sibling. Maitreyah Guenther takes this term to frame her deeply personal play Glass Child, presented by The Farm and currently showing at the Seymour Centre.
Featuring her brother Kayah Guenther, Maitreyah draws on memories and old film footage, coupled with choreographed dance numbers, to tell the story of her relationship with Kayah, living with Down syndrome, and their bond in the face of the adversity he faced. It’s non linear and includes a range of scenes that are disjointed, but provide a small glimpse into their private lives.
The play is an excellent vehicle for Kayah, who is vivacious and unruly. His dance sequences coupled with his acting chops make him a formidable part of the story. For Maitreyah, she is more considered and softly spoken, with quick and sharp moves that demonstrate her strong talent. The charisma seeps off both of them and they are bright parts of the show. Created by the two, in addition to Kate Harman and Gavin Webber, its blend of narration, video and dance, in addition to strong lighting by Chloe Ogilvie and set by Rozina Suliman, feels interesting.
Unfortunately, the show fails to live up to its title and explore what it truly means for Maitreyah to live alongside Kayah – any stories of her own issues are dealt with lightly and the play sacrifices a lot of sincere moments for musical sequences that last a little too long. While there are themes that touch on trust, love and finding a place in the world, it doesn’t feel cohesive enough to make a huge impact.
There’s a lot in Glass Child that won’t ring too emotional for a lot of people, but it is an effective piece of work that shows the truly beautiful relationship between two siblings and is a strong space for the performers to show their talents. It’s deeply personal and intimate, making it feel wholly unique.
