We might not all have been in that exact situation but Mayflies portrays a down to earth version of a relationship much like the one described. May and Fly, after texting for a long time, are excited to finally start their relationship in person and we get to see how it unfolds…
The actors both do an incredible job of performing roles that are both physically and emotionally taxing, especially because they are both either acting, singing or dancing throughout the musical.
The setting was well-crafted, with a hotel room in centre-stage surrounded by blocks to the front and stairs behind. This allowed for different levels showing distance between the characters. The mayfly-themed lanterns descending on the set during songs and dances were a very nice touch.
The music was fairly simple but had common motifs that played throughout. This allowed the audience to recall earlier tunes, recontextualised with the audience having watched May and Fly’s journey. I particularly enjoyed the scoring underneath the short dance sections which provided a break between scenes. These dance sections were used effectively as a metaphor for the build up and release of tensions in the characters’ relationships.
Overall, it was a very good musical exploring pressures that modern relationships are often under, particularly with online dating. It also explored whether there are any ways to ease these pressures, all whilst not losing touch with levity, and having some good humour in places.
York Theatre Royal’s world premiere production of Gus Gowland’s new musical Mayflies, runs from the 28th of April to the 13th of May. Thanks to York Theatre Royal for making this review possible.
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