‘Stereophonic’ Delivers Rock Theatre Experience at Playhouse Square

The play “Stereophonic” is captivating audiences at Cleveland’s Playhouse Square, offering a unique glimpse into the world of rock music. Set against the backdrop of a fictional band recording an album, the production has drawn attention for its engaging narrative and exceptional musical performances. Despite this, audience reactions have varied, with some attendees leaving during intermission, highlighting a disconnect between expectations and the show’s format.

While “Stereophonic” features vibrant music, it is not a traditional musical. Instead, it is a play written by David Adjmi, which explores the creative dynamics within a band reminiscent of the iconic Fleetwood Mac. The production has garnered critical acclaim, earning a record-breaking 13 Tony Award nominations and winning five, including Best Play, in 2024.

The narrative follows a fictional rock band through a year of recording, showcasing the artistic process and the tension that often accompanies it. The characters closely mirror the real-life members of Fleetwood Mac, with Denver Milord and Claire DeJean portraying the central duo, Peter and Diana, echoing the legendary partnership of Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks. Other cast members include Cornelius McMoyler as Simon and Christopher Mowod as Reg, akin to Mick Fleetwood and John McVie, respectively.

Though the music, composed by former Arcade Fire member Will Butler, carries a distinct 1970s rock influence, it remains original to the play. The production has raised questions regarding its inspirations, particularly after Ken Caillat, a producer on Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours,” and co-writer Steven Stiefel, filed a lawsuit against the show, which was settled in late 2024.

Inside the Recording Booth

Director Daniel Aukin masterfully orchestrates the play’s action within the confines of a recording booth, offering audiences a behind-the-scenes perspective. The narrative unfolds in four acts, with the transitions between time periods cleverly executed through sound and lighting cues. Notably, all music is performed live by the cast, enriching the experience and enhancing the emotional stakes of the story.

The highlight of the production occurs during the Act II performance of “Masquerade,” a song that encapsulates the hard-rock essence of the era, resonating deeply with both the audience and the storyline. This performance sends viewers into intermission on a high note, showcasing the band’s potential when they harmoniously unite.

As the play progresses into the second half, audiences witness dramatic confrontations, particularly between Peter and Diana. Their tumultuous relationship exemplifies the pressures of artistic perfection, revealing both admirable and frustrating qualities in Peter’s character. Claire DeJean and Denver Milord deliver compelling performances, drawing the audience into the emotional complexities of their roles.

Audience Reception and Experience

Despite its strengths, “Stereophonic” has faced criticism for its length, running nearly three hours, which exceeds the typical duration for touring productions. Some attendees have expressed disappointment at the limited performance time of certain songs from the accompanying Stereophonic (Original Cast Recording) album, which features tracks that could merit further exploration during the show.

The only notable performance discrepancy comes from Christopher Mowod, whose portrayal of Reg leans towards the exaggerated, though his eccentricities are in line with the character’s design. Overall, the cast delivers a powerful experience, balancing the drama of the recording process with the exhilarating highs of musical performance.

“Stereophonic” runs until January 25, 2024, at Playhouse Square’s Connor Palace, located at 615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. Tickets start at $34.80 and can be purchased through PlayhouseSquare.org or by calling 216-241-6000. For those passionate about rock music and theatrical storytelling, this production offers an engaging glimpse into the creative challenges faced by artists, making it a noteworthy addition to the Cleveland arts scene.