Stereophonic at Duke of York’s: A Bold and Intricate Production

June 18, 20253 min read

The Duke of York’s Theatre is alive with the electric chaos of Stereophonic, a Broadway sensation that has stormed the West End until October 11. David Adjmi’s Tony Award-winning play, inspired by Fleetwood Mac’s turbulent recording of Rumours, plunges audiences into a 1976 California studio where a fictional rock band teeters on the edge of stardom or collapse. With original songs by Arcade Fire’s Will Butler, a stellar transatlantic cast, and a three-hour runtime that pulses with tension and humor, this production is a gripping, if indulgent, ode to the messy magic of music-making.

Set over a year, Stereophonic follows five bandmates—three Brits and two Americans, including two unraveling couples—as they wrestle with their sophomore album amid drugs, ego clashes, and creative obsession. The band’s rhythm section, married keyboardist Holly (Nia Towle) and bassist Reg (Zachary Hart), is crumbling under Reg’s substance abuse. Drummer Simon (Chris Stack) plays peacemaker, while guitarist Peter (Jack Riddiford) and vocalist Diana (Lucy Karczewski) drive the album forward, their romance fraying under Peter’s controlling streak. Sound engineers Grover (Eli Gelb) and Charlie (Andrew R. Butler), both Broadway originals, offer a wry lens on the carnage, their deadpan humor cutting through the haze of weed and cocaine.

The Cast of Stereophonic - Stereophonic

Directed by Daniel Aukin, the play’s fly-on-the-wall style, with overlapping dialogue and deliberate silences, mirrors the grind of studio life. Will Butler’s songs, like “Seven Roads” and “Masquerade,” evoke 1970s pop-rock hits, performed live with raw authenticity. David Zinn’s meticulous set, split between a control room and recording booth, immerses audiences in the process, though some critics note the 195-minute runtime feels baggy, with repetitive tangents about custard or movie debates. Still, standout performances, especially Riddiford’s edgy Peter and Karczewski’s vulnerable Diana, capture the agony and ecstasy of artistic perfectionism.

After a record-breaking 13 Tony nominations and five wins, including Best Play, Stereophonic has divided London critics. Some hail its audacious authenticity and musical payoff, while others find its slow-burn realism tests patience. Fans of 1970s rock or behind-the-scenes drama will revel in its immersive world. Tickets start at £32 for ages 13+, with under-30 discounts at £30. Book now to witness a band—and a play—that dares to chase greatness, flaws and all.