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New Musical 'Flyby' Explores Turbulent Love Amidst Space Theme

4/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The new musical Flyby, created by Theo Jamieson and Adam Lenson, centers on a tumultuous relationship between Daniel and Emily, portrayed by Stuart Thompson and Poppy Gilbert.
The narrative unfolds non-sequentially and reveals emotional traumas and dysfunctions.
Critics say the space theme complicates the narrative and undermines development, but Thompson's Daniel is praised and the score shows ambition, reminiscent of Next to Normal.

History

Historical Context

"Next to Normal," a groundbreaking musical that premiered Off-Broadway in 2008, explores the impact of bipolar disorder on a suburban family. Created by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, it won three Tony Awards and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, marking a significant shift in how mental health is portrayed in theater. This reflects a broader societal acceptance of mental health issues in contemporary narratives.

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Story summary

The new musical Flyby, created by Theo Jamieson and Adam Lenson, centers on a tumultuous relationship between Daniel and Emily, portrayed by Stuart Thompson and Poppy Gilbert.
The narrative unfolds non-sequentially and reveals emotional traumas and dysfunctions.
Critics say the space theme complicates the narrative and undermines development, but Thompson's Daniel is praised and the score shows ambition, reminiscent of Next to Normal.

1 / 2