Bug Songs Not Love Songs is whimsical, heartwarming and surprisingly deep.

Two bugs sing for us (other bugs) as we’re gathered on the wall for a weekly concert. That’s the delightfully simple premise of Bug Songs Not Love Songs, a new musical comedy from Lia Kelly and Phoebe Caldeiro.

What unfolds over the next hour is something far richer: a story about love, identity, community and the threat of imminent death. All told from the perspective of two ladybugs trying to figure it out before the fumigator arrives.

Every bug knows of Bauble (Kelly) and Skump (Caldeiro), the duo that plays weekly concerts on the living room wall. Every bug also knows this will be their last show before the house is sprayed. What follows is a set of original comedy songs covering everything from ‘Praying Mantis Wedding’ to ‘Questions for Humans’.

The creativity on display is extraordinary. This might be the most creatively realised show I’ve ever seen. The set and props are incredibly inventive, helping us see everyday objects from a bug’s-eye view. The set backdrop is a cleverly painted lounge, seen from our perspective as bugs at the top of the wall. It immediately situates us in their world. We are small creatures looking down on a human space we’ll never fully inhabit. The giant fly swat that emerges with the threat of death adds a genuine sting to the proceedings.

The musical performances are excellent, with a variety of instruments all played well. The songs are so catchy that by halfway through, you’re singing along to genuine earworms that burrow in and stay with you long after you’ve left. The range of musical styles and emotions covered is impressive for a two-person show. It’s the kind of talent that really bugs you (in the best way).

Kelly and Caldeiro are absolutely adorable as Bauble and Skump. Their chemistry is undeniable and their characters are endearing from the moment we arrive. You genuinely hope they realise they’re in love with each other one day. The show handles this arc with warmth and subtlety, letting it grow organically rather than forcing the issue. The exploration of identity and intersectionality, including trans-bug rights, is woven in so naturally that you barely notice the deep messages hidden in plain sight until they hit you right in the chest. It’s amazing what these little bugs are willing to beetle for.

I particularly love the readings from the Holey Book, a sweet nod to The Very Hungry Caterpillar. I will admit that the full weight of the joke (it’s a book full of holes) didn’t hit me until I was walking home. It’s these kinds of clever details that stay with you, crawling back into your brain long after the show has ended.

Director Alayne Dick deserves credit for keeping the plot and pacing absolutely on point. The show has it all, from love and death to unions; it moves through its emotional beats with confidence. The tech is great throughout, supporting the action while drawing just the right amount of attention to itself.

Audience interaction is handled with the same friendly, supportive energy that permeates the entire production. No one is made to feel uncomfortable; instead, we’re invited into their world with many open arms (legs?). We’re even given antennae to wear, making us feel like part of the bug community. It’s an experience that truly lets you shed your exoskeleton and get comfortable.

I don’t remember having this much wholesome fun at a show. It made me laugh out loud throughout and literally brought the audience to tears. Its emotional moments are earned honestly through carefully built investment in these two little bugs and their fate. By the end, there isn’t a dry ocelli in the house.

Bug Songs Not Love Songs is a tiny show with a huge heart. It explores big ideas through a small lens and lands every single time. Whether you’re here for the catchy songs, the heartfelt romance, or just the chance to wear antennae in public, this show delivers. Catch this one before it flies away!

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