If you’re in New York and looking for a show that captures the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll while exploring the messy intricacies of human relationships, look no further than Stereophonic, currently lighting up the stage at the John Golden Theatre. This play, penned by David Adjmi, takes us on a nostalgic journey back to the 1970s, a time when music was a powerful force that shaped lives and careers. The Golden Theatre itself, with its rich history and intimate setting, provides the perfect backdrop for this tale of ambition, love, and the pursuit of artistic greatness.
Stereophonic revolves around a fictional band struggling to record what they hope will be their defining album. The story unfolds in a wood-paneled recording studio—think vintage vibes with just the right amount of grit—where we meet Peter (Benjamin Anthony Anderson) and Diana (Amy Forsyth), a couple caught in the whirlwind of love and ambition. As they navigate their personal and professional lives, tensions rise not just between them but also among their bandmates: Holly (Rebecca Naomi Jones) and Reg (Will Brill), who are as volatile as they are talented; sound engineer Grover (at our performance, played by understudy Cornelius McMoyler), who seems to have his own agenda; Charlie (Andrew R. Butler), Grover’s eager assistant; and Simon (Chris Stack), the drummer whose laid-back demeanor hides deeper issues.
The plot is rich with drama and humor, showcasing the highs and lows of creating art in an industry that often feels like a pressure cooker. As Peter and Diana wrestle with their relationship while trying to keep the band together, we see how personal struggles can bleed into creative endeavors. The dialogue is sharp and witty, filled with moments that will make you laugh out loud while also tugging at your heartstrings.
Benjamin Anthony Anderson delivers a standout performance as Peter. He embodies the character’s internal conflict with such authenticity that you can’t help but root for him—even when he makes questionable decisions. His chemistry with Amy Forsyth is electric; their interactions feel genuine and relatable, capturing the essence of a couple trying to balance love with ambition. Forsyth’s portrayal of Diana is equally compelling; she brings a fierce independence to her character that resonates deeply. Watching her navigate her own aspirations while dealing with Peter’s struggles adds layers to her performance.
Then there’s Will Brill as Reg—what a treat! He brings a delightful mix of humor and pathos to the role of the tortured artist. Reg’s antics provide comic relief amidst the tension, but Brill also manages to convey the character’s deeper insecurities about his place in the band and the world. Rebecca Naomi Jones as Holly complements him beautifully, portraying a woman who is passionate and unpredictable. Their dynamic is one of the highlights of the show, showcasing how love can be exhilarating and exhausting.
The ensemble cast works together brilliantly, each actor bringing something unique to their role. Cornelius McMoyler’s (the understudy’s) Grover is particularly noteworthy; he plays the sound engineer with an air of mystery that keeps you guessing about his true intentions. Andrew R. Butler as Charlie provides an earnestness that balances out some of the more intense moments in the play, while Chris Stack’s Simon adds a laid-back charm that contrasts nicely with the heightened emotions around him.
Under Daniel Aukin’s direction, Stereophonic strikes an impressive balance between humor and drama. Aukin has crafted a production that feels alive; it moves at a brisk pace while allowing moments for reflection. David Zinn’s set design transports you straight into that 70s recording studio without overwhelming you with unnecessary details. You can almost smell the vinyl records and hear the distant echoes of classic rock hits as you settle into your seat.
Emotionally, Stereophonic hits all the right notes (pun intended). It explores themes of collaboration, artistic integrity, and personal sacrifice in ways that feel relatable and real. The characters’ struggles reflect universal truths about pursuing dreams while maintaining relationships—something anyone who has ever tried to juggle work and love can appreciate. The dialogue sparkles with wit; one moment you’re laughing at a clever quip, and in another breath, you’re reflecting on deeper issues that linger long after the lights go down.
As I sat in my seat watching this unfolding drama, I found myself not just entertained but also moved by these characters’ journeys. There were moments when I felt like I was eavesdropping on real conversations about love, art, and everything in between—a testament to Adjmi’s writing prowess.
While Stereophonic offers an engaging narrative filled with memorable performances, its three-hour runtime is lengthy. A few scenes could benefit from tighter editing to maintain momentum without sacrificing emotional depth. But there’s a reason this play swept the Tony’s. It deserved it.