Flyby – Southwark Playhouse Borough

Stuart Thompson and Poppy Gilbert in Flyby at Southwark Playhouse Borough, London. Picture: Alex Brenner

Flyby – A New Musical continues at Southwark Playhouse Borough, London until 16 May 2026.

Star rating: three stars ★ ★ ★ ✩ ✩

Could you build me a distant lighthouse, with you the light to guide me home? That’s the question posed as we are drawn into the new musical Flyby.

Even before the show starts, there is some indication from Libby Todd’s set design and Ben Jacobs’ vibrant lighting of the show might play out.

Flyby follows the story of astronaut Daniel Defoe and how he ends up on a lone journey separated from the rest of his crew in a spacecraft nicknamed The Ostrich. As the show moves forward, we start to learn more of how and why this occurred for him.

Written and composed by Theo Jamieson, and directed by co-creator Adam Lenson, the production takes the audience on a journey through time, stepping backwards to meet a younger Daniel and explore his somewhat complicated relationship with filmmaker Emily Baker (Poppy Gilbert).

Their chemistry is clear, but there are also constant disagreements, a hint as to why Daniel will end up travelling solo. Stuart Thompson, as Daniel, is brilliant in bringing the character to life, portraying a whole range of emotions. The same can be said of Gilbert who gives a meaningful performance. Gina Beck, Rupert Young and Simbi Akande are also excellent throughout.

The story itself can get a little lost at times, but musical director Ben Kubiak and sound designer Kelsh Buckman-Drage’s care for the score, plus exceptional vocal performances from the cast, help to keep the narrative on track.

The atmospheric design and use of video are standout features too with backdrop screens presenting both news articles and intergalactic imagery. Eleanor Bull’s vibrant costume design works well with each different character presentation.

Flyby boasts unique and poignant storytelling, which works well in the space at Southwark Playhouse. If you’re a fan of new musicals, this one would be worth a watch.

Emily East