Ajnelli Productions is set to present the UK premiere of 'Fly Trap,' a solo storytelling coming-of-age comedy, at the Camden Fringe 2025. Running from July 28th to August 2nd at the Barons Court Theatre, this insightful show promises a unique blend of humor and heartfelt reflection on drama school trauma and mental health. Press night is scheduled for Monday, July 28th, at 7:30 PM.
Created and performed by Atlanta-based comedian and writer Maria Mainelli-Ajmo, 'Fly Trap' serves as a powerful reclamation of her identity following a bipolar diagnosis and the emotional aftermath of her drama school experience. The show delves into the "horrors of being a musical theatre major desperately wanting to be liked," exploring the lengths Maria went to for acceptance—including a memorable anecdote about licking a teenage boy's armpit.
Mainelli-Ajmo’s narrative is framed by her grandmother's classic advice: "you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar." Maria humorously recounts how this adage shaped her younger years, ultimately leading her to embrace "the vinegar, salt and heat of life that made her who she is."
"‘Fly Trap’ is a piece of my heart and a piece of me, put onstage," says Maria Mainelli-Ajmo. "I wrote this show because I needed to write it for myself, but I'm performing it because I want other people to see themselves in it and know it's okay to be okay. I'm so excited to be making my UK debut at Camden Fringe; it's such an honor to perform this show internationally."
An accomplished performer, Maria previously won the Helen Hayes Award for Best Ensemble Cast for Blood at the Root with Theatre Alliance in Washington, D.C. 'Fly Trap' is her debut solo show, having already enjoyed successful runs at the Atlanta Theatre, Pittsburgh Fringe, SoloCOM NYC, and Atlanta Fringe. Following its Camden Fringe run, the show is also slated for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the PIT NYC later this year.
'Fly Trap' has a running time of 40 minutes and is suitable for ages 16+. Tickets are priced at £14.00, with concessions available for £10.00, and can be purchased via www.baronscourttheatre.com or by calling 07833 913760.
