Sealed is a one-woman show written and performed by Morgan-Drew Glasgow which integrates Scottish folklore with a thought-provoking examination of contemporary motherhood.
Glasgow, an Edinburgh native and recent graduate of the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, makes her Fringe debut with Sealed. It depicts a struggling new mother as she copes with raising her young daughter in a small village on the east coast of Scotland. This coastal setting is critical to the plot, as our protagonist finds herself increasingly drawn to the mythological creature of the Selkie.
A Selkie is an integral element of Scottish folklore, mythical creatures that shift between their human and seal forms. The informational packet accompanying Sealed’s program describes these creatures as “representing escapism, transformation and compassion.” The first two traits are especially present in Sealed as the protagonist attempts to distinguish her personal identity from her identity as a mother. Can she be herself, or will she always be simply “a mom”? This is the question Sealed attempts to tackle.
The production does show some growing pains. The sound mixing was distracting at times, making it difficult to hear Glasgow over the music or background track. The set is intentionally cluttered to represent the chaotic environs of a new mother, but this also gives Morgan very limited space to move as an actor, something I was longing to see at its conclusion.
Structurally, Sealed is sometimes difficult to follow. Instead of clear-cut plot, the show is far more interested in the inner psyche of the protagonist and her rising sense of desperation. This makes for an atmospheric (if sometimes abstract) viewing. The challenges of motherhood are not often discussed openly in our contemporary culture, making it very difficult for new mothers to share their struggles or even admit that such struggles exist. Sealed depicts these issues openly and honestly, showing compassion for our protagonist without redeeming her.
Glasgow’s performance is excellent here, full of empathy and honesty. She immerses herself in the role and the result is enrapturing, keeping the audience invested until the very last moment. She shows incredible promise as a performer and creator, and I look forward to watching and supporting whatever she does next.
Sealed in running 16-19 Aug, tickets available here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/sealed
Image provided to The Student by Sealed.