The latest production of “Stereophonic” at Cleveland’s Playhouse Square has sparked diverse reactions, leading some audience members to exit during intermission. This play, which chronicles the journey of a fictional rock band as they record an album, deviates from the typical musical format expected in the venue’s KeyBank Broadway Series. Unlike traditional musicals, “Stereophonic” focuses on narrative rather than song-and-dance sequences, making it a notable addition to the theatre landscape.
Written by David Adjmi, “Stereophonic” holds the distinction of being the most Tony Award-nominated play in history, with an impressive 13 nominations. It won five awards in 2024, including Best Play. The production resonates particularly with fans of 1970s rock music and those intrigued by the creative process behind music production. Adjmi’s narrative highlights the multitude of decisions involved in creating beloved songs while also showcasing the interpersonal dramas within the band.
While the play is entertaining, it carries an undeniable resemblance to the tumultuous history of Fleetwood Mac, particularly during the creation of their iconic album, Rumours. The characters mirror the band members closely: Peter (played by Denver Milord) and Diana (played by Claire DeJean) represent the songwriting duo akin to Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks. The British members of the band reflect the personalities of Mick Fleetwood and Christine and John McVie, creating a direct correlation between the characters and their real-life counterparts.
The narrative is further enriched by the parallels to the actual recording process of Rumours, which famously moved from Sausalito, California, to Los Angeles. Notably, Ken Caillat, a producer for the original album, and co-author Steven Stiefel filed a lawsuit against the production, which was settled in late 2024, indicating the thin line between inspiration and infringement.
In the capable hands of director Daniel Aukin, “Stereophonic” delivers an engaging performance. The action unfolds primarily within a recording booth, viewed through the eyes of sound engineer Grover (played by Jack Barrett). The clever use of sound and lighting cues effectively navigates the audience through various time jumps, enhancing the storytelling experience.
A standout feature of the production is the live music performed by the cast, showcasing their talents and bringing authenticity to the emotional highs and lows of the narrative. The music, composed by former Arcade Fire member Will Butler, draws heavy inspiration from the 1970s rock genre. The highlight of the show is the Act II closing number, “Masquerade,” which captures the essence of the era and leaves the audience buzzing as they head into intermission.
The second half of the play delves deeper into the dramatic interactions between characters, particularly focusing on conflicts involving Peter’s perfectionism and his turbulent relationships with Diana and Simon. These moments provide insight into the complexities of creative collaboration within the music industry, making for a thought-provoking experience.
While most performances are compelling, the portrayal of Reg (played by Christopher Mowod) sometimes veers into caricature, detracting slightly from the overall impact. Nonetheless, the production’s exploration of the music-making process, complete with its share of challenges and triumphs, resonates strongly with audiences.
At nearly three hours, “Stereophonic” offers a comprehensive view of the recording experience, blending humor, drama, and of course, music. It delivers a sense of intimacy, allowing viewers to feel like they are part of the creative process that shaped a legendary album.
For those interested in this unique theatrical experience, “Stereophonic” runs through January 25, 2024, at Playhouse Square’s Connor Palace, located at 615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. Tickets, starting at $34.80, can be purchased through PlayhouseSquare.org or by calling 216-241-6000. This production promises to offer a captivating glimpse into the world of rock music and the intricate dynamics of artistic collaboration.
