Smaller review | Gasworks Arts Park

In Smaller, David Williams brings together family history, genetics and the experience of raising a child with a developmental disability to explore how the past shapes who we become. Tracing his heritage across Germany, England and Australia, he connects the stories of earlier generations with scientific discoveries about DNA and the challenges of navigating support for his son through the NDIS.

Williams is particularly effective when weaving family history and migration across generations. However, as the narrative turns towards genetics and chromosomes, the scientific detail begins to weigh it down. The discussion of the Human Genome Project, an international effort to map and sequence human DNA, feels unnecessary, adding another layer of information without sufficiently advancing the personal account.

The issue. is that Smaller is trying to do a lot. Williams’ ancestry, the science of genetic mutations and the struggles of raising a child with an invisible disability are all fascinating subjects, but they do not always come together smoothly. The transitions are well executed, but the shifts in focus are disconnected, with each thread competing for attention rather than building towards a cohesive whole. The ending, which turns to the love between a father and his son, is heartfelt, but its sentimentality is somewhat overstated given the limited emotional development leading up to it.

Williams delivers an effective performance, demonstrating a comfortable command of the material and his own story. Julian Dibley-Hall’s direction is confident and assured, allowing the events to unfold at an unhurried pace. Each word is given weight, so the audience has the time to consider what is being said.

Gail Priest’s composition and sound design complement the material without distracting from it. The score evokes emotion, while specific sounds, such as chalk drawing circles and a man snoring, add fitting auditory detail. Used sparingly, these elements enrich the production without disrupting its rhythm.

Smaller has a compelling personal story at its centre, which Williams presents with warmth and authenticity. However, the work’s ambition to unite family history, genetic science and the realities of parenthood ultimately dilutes its emotional focus. Placing greater emphasis on the relationship between Williams and his son would give the work a stronger emotional focus, and have its most affecting subject resonate more fully.

Smaller was performed at Gasworks Arts Park on Friday 30 October.

Image credit: Brett Boardman