🎭 Supersonic Man – A Soaring, Soulful Tribute to Love, Loss, and Human Resilience

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars

Southwark Playhouse Borough | 9 April – 3 May 2025

Losing my dear friend of over forty years - Shiv - to Motor Neurone Disease (MND) a couple of years ago left an emotional scar that still lingers. So, when I was asked to review Supersonic Man, a new musical inspired by the life of Peter Scott-Morgan and the documentary Peter: The Human Cyborg, I was a little apprehensive.

What I experienced, however, was something extraordinary. A musical so full of life, love, and integrity that it managed to bring both laughter and healing.

Two men seated, one has his head on the other man's shoulder — Facing MND together Photo credit Louis Burgess

Supersonic Man: A Story Told with Heart

The show follows Adam, a journalist and techno-optimist diagnosed with MND, and his partner Darryl, as they navigate this devastating illness with courage and creativity. Dylan Aiello brings a striking sincerity and lightness to Adam’s character, balancing moments of strength with deep vulnerability, and the spirit to fight, fight and then fight some more. Dominic Sullivan (a man that the term 'matinee idol' was coined for), as Darryl, delivers a performance of quiet emotional depth, portraying the complexities of loving — and caregiving — with absolute truth.

A Standout Supporting Cast

James Lowrie (Ben) and Jude St James (Ruth) round out the ensemble with honesty and warmth. But it’s Mali Wen Davies as Shaz who repeatedly steals the spotlight. Her range is phenomenal, shifting from comedic timing to emotional sincerity in a heartbeat. Her energy is infectious, and her voice—clear, commanding, and utterly compelling—anchors several of the show’s most memorable musical numbers.

Music, Light, and Unexpected Joy

The score, under the direction of Aaron Clingham, is a real highlight. The songs are not only beautifully written but also clearly delivered — every lyric lands. The recurring song “Boffins” adds a playful charm that lightens the tone at just the right moments. And the sudden appearance of inflatable seagulls mid-show brought a burst of delight that had the whole audience smiling.

Lighting design is another strong suit, especially in the gripping ambulance scene. Without overplaying the drama, the lighting enhances the emotional stakes and deepens the storytelling.

Layers of Loss and Love

What sets Supersonic Man apart is its emotional intelligence. It navigates the stages of mourning — denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance — not just as a process of grief for death, but as a reckoning with change, dependency, and lost identity. It also doesn't shy away from the very real challenges of becoming a carer, portraying that transition with nuance, tenderness, and brutal honesty.

Man dressed in a silver body suits as if he's a cyborg — Adam briefly becomes the Supersonic Man. Photo credit Louis Burgess

Supersonic Man is one of those rare shows that tackles tough subjects with unflinching honesty and huge heart. If you’ve ever loved, lost, or looked for light in dark times — don’t miss it.