Review: Supersonic Man (Southwark Playhouse Borough)

Review by Daz Gale

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Southwark Playhouse having two venues in Elephant and Castle means they can now have three shows playing at the same time. This week, that has meant two world premieres of brand new musicals. The day after reviewing Midnight Cowboy at its Elephant venue, I was back down the road to check out Supersonic Man at Southwark Playhouse Borough. While the first show failed to blow me away, would this one fare any better?

Loosely inspired by Peter Scott Morgan, who was the subject of a 2020 documentary ‘Peter: The Human Cybiorg’, Supersonic Man sees young influencer Adam face a difficult future when he is diagnosed with Motor neurone disease. He decides to challenge his terminal illness by becoming a human cyborg, attempting to beat the clock with procedures as his condition deteriorates faster than anyone imagined. With the help of his partner, Darryl, his friends and a TV crew, Adam is determined to make his days count, finding new ways to survive and love.

There is always a worry about how a show like Supersonic Man will address the issue with other shows crossing a line that has left a bad taste in people’s mouths. To alleviate those concerns immediately, this production has been developed with the support of the MND Association and the result is a story that is told with sensitivity and shines a light on the condition.

This is where writer and director Chris Burgess’ work truly shines. In his writing, he has weaved a complex story that deals not only with Adam and his coming to terms with his unexpected future, but also that of his partner. Both Adam and Darryl are richly characterised in a relationship that feels authentic and beautiful in the love they have for each other. Burgess also manages to balance conflicting tones with the comedy at the forefront for the most of it, garnering genuine laughs while never diminishing Adam’s plight and the gravitas this story holds. As the condition becomes more serious, the heavier side of the story appears, leaving an emotional response that is delicately handled.

The music doesn’t always fare as strongly, proving uneven at times with several numbers failing to be memorable and including lyrics that are far too repetitive. The repeated use of “Boffins” lets the show down, feeling a bit too juvenile in a story that deserves better than that and achieves that for the most part. There are some standout numbers particularly towards the climax of the show, with ‘Is It Worth It’ and closing number ‘New Ways To Live’ allowing the music in Supersonic Man to end on a high.

Burgess’ direction navigates the confined space of The Little at Southwark Playhouse Borough in a design that has clearly set its sights on far bigger spaces. Unlike the other show I reviewed at Southwark Playhouse this week, it doesn’t feel like it has been designed for the wrong space and rather uses what it has while making clear it is ready to be adapted should this get another life elsewhere in the future. The direction is beautifully complemented by Phillip Joel’s thrilling choreography. Though there aren’t many moments for the cast five members to perform together, the movement is always slick with the trio of supporting characters getting more moments to demonstrate this. 

Dylan Aiello leads the cast as Adam in an assured performance that allows the initial confidence of the character to pave way to more conflicting emotions, allowing for a sense of bravado with cracks slipping. Aiello impresses with his ability to command the stage and retain focus in a well-rounded character that naturally changes as the situation unfolds. Dominic Sullivan is similarly impressive as Adam’s partner, Darryl. The nature of the story allows for the action to be viewed from both sides, never weakening the often overlooked struggle of how loved ones deal with life-changing news. His solo towards the show’s climax is a huge highlight while the chemistry on display from the pair makes the relationship feel all the more real.

The remaining three cast members take on multiple roles, doubling up as Adam and Darryl’s friendship group and the TV crew that ultimately come on board to make the documentary as well as a smattering of other brief characters including doctors and the aforementioned “boffins”. James Lowrie gives a larger than life turn as Ben, our initial introduction to tAdam and Darry’s world, while Jude St James delights as Ruth. The standout performance comes from Mali Wen Davies, unbelievably making her professional stage debut. Her take on both friend Shaz and the funniest role of the show in the TV producer/presenter showcased her remarkable talents throughout and sets her up as one to watch. If that is what she can do with her stage debut, I have no doubt she has a big future ahead for her.

As premieres go. Supersonic Man impressed throughout. It’s not perfect and definitely needs a bit tightening up in places, but the potential is clear to see in this beautiful and confident debut. Chris Burgess has created a story full of heightened feelings - funny, beautiful and sorrowful at times. Never losing sight of hope, even when the circumstances become too dark, ironically the story is about humanity and that shines through in both the acting and the performances. Though a little work is needed to get this to be the best version of itself, it is already in pretty good shape and leaves me excited to see where this life-affirming show can go next.

Supersonic Man plays at Southwark Playhouse Borough until 3rd May. Tickets from www.southwarkplayhouse.co.uk

Photos by Louis Burgess