Review: MAYFLIES, York Theatre Royal

Photo credit: Sam Taylor

Mayflies, a compelling new musical written and composed by Gus Gowland, is a brilliant reflection and portrayal of a 21st century love story. The story revolves around two people, May and Fly who, as in modern day life meet online and form a relationship which culminates in them finally meeting two years after first speaking. 

We follow them through a series of flashbacks and flashforwards through time and watch their two year journey unfold. The twist with this new musical is that the cast differs between each showing. Last night’s performance starred Nuno Queimado in the role of May and Rumi Sutton in the role of Fly. 

Both experienced performers command the stage which, being a cast of only two, could not have been easy. The emotions from the two of them together and separately are captivating and the comedic value of the script is delivered in such a perfect way you almost forget you are watching something other than real life. The performers equally share the emotions and astoundingly go from crying to laughing with such ease. 

The professionalism of the entire production is astonishing. The set, sound and lighting is simple but so effective, using very minimal props and costumes between the two actors on stage but perfectly portraying the moment we were all witness to. 

The songs are some of the catchiest songs to be featured in a new musical for a long time and should be made readily available on streaming platforms to the masses. The feel from the audience (during and after) was warmth and joy – a lot of people left humming the tunes we had just witnessed, proving how much of an earworm they prove to be. Surely this is the goal of anyone who writes a musical, right? 

This musical could easily transfer to a West End stage or even have its own Netflix adaptation. The concept, the songs, the diversification between casts – everything feels so current but transparent amongst generations. In the words of director Tania Azeveda: “The two people in Mayflies could be any of us”; this is what helps the show become such a success. 

Now taking a leaf out of May’s book, lets create an excel of all the things we want to achieve in life! Better late than never!!

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Kelly Bell

Mayflies plays at York Theatre Royal until 13 May, with further information here.