Tao of Glass Review: McDermott's Theatrical Meditation on Philip 2026

The Tao of Glass review highlights how Phelim McDermott transforms a shattered coffee table, the I Ching, and a flotation tank into a spellbinding theatrical tapestry. Premiered at Manchester International Festival in 2019, this London debut is part concert, part performance, and wholly mesmerizing. McDermott's meditation on minimalist composer Philip Glass weaves together fragments of autobiography, puppetry, and music into a profound exploration of creativity.

What Is the Tao of Glass About?

At its core, the show is a response to Glass's own question: where does music come from? For McDermott, that question expands to encompass art, inspiration, and life itself. The narrative is driven by an unmade collaboration—an adaptation of Maurice Sendak's In the Night Kitchen, derailed by the author's death. This loss becomes the catalyst for a series of vignettes performed by McDermott, three puppeteers, and a quartet of musicians, each set to original music by Glass.

The production is deliberately non-linear, embracing fragmentation as a storytelling method. McDermott describes it as a “storytelling tapestry”—a phrase that captures the way disparate elements (a hooded Chinese philosopher made from manuscript paper, piano innards transformed into the New York skyline, kitchen utensils as an orchestra) coalesce into a cohesive emotional experience.

The Magic of Stagecraft and Music

What makes the Tao of Glass extraordinary is its seamless blend of stage magic and live music. McDermott, initially discovered sitting in the front row, is magically transported to the stage, breaking the fourth wall throughout. The show includes a tear-jerker, a jump-scare, and moments of pure joy, all underscored by Glass's minimalist compositions performed live. The music serves as a “river” running through McDermott's life, from his teenage obsession with Glassworks to professional collaborations on Glass's operas.

Key Themes and Symbolism

The production is rich with symbolism: a shattered coffee table represents broken creative plans; the I Ching offers a framework for chance and change; Maurice Sendak's influence lingers as a ghost of childhood wonder. McDermott's monologue is both personal and universal, using theatre's tricks to examine the nature of inspiration. As the show progresses, the audience is invited to reflect on their own creative journeys, making it a deeply resonant experience.

Comparison: Tao of Glass vs. Traditional Theatre

Why You Should See This London Debut

The Tao of Glass is not just a tribute to Philip Glass; it is a testament to the power of creative resilience. McDermott's direction, combined with the live quartet and puppeteers, creates an immersive experience that defies easy categorization. The show's humor and joy balance its more melancholic undertones, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with Glass's music will be moved.

• Unique fusion of concert, performance art, and autobiography.
• Live music by a quartet performing Glass's original compositions.
• Innovative puppetry and stage magic that captivate both eyes and ears.
• Emotional depth that resonates with artists and non-artists alike.
• London debut after acclaimed premiere in Manchester.

FAQ

In conclusion, the Tao of Glass is a must-see for anyone interested in boundary-pushing theatre. It celebrates the creative process with wit and warmth, proving that even a show that “doesn't happen” can become a masterpiece. Don't miss this London run—it's a rare opportunity to witness McDermott and Glass's artistic dialogue come to life.