How Butler’s Arcade Fire Influence Shaped Tony-Winning ‘Stereophonic’
“Stereophonic,” a Tony Award-winning play set to debut at Playhouse Square on Jan. 6, tells the story of a rock band on the cusp of fame as they craft a new album. Will Butler, who composed the music for the play, draws on his past experiences with Arcade Fire, where he collaborated with his brother, Win Butler. This hands-on involvement in the music industry provided Butler with a firsthand understanding of the intricate dynamics within a band setting, which he has infused into the narrative of “Stereophonic.”
The genesis of the project can be traced back to a chance meeting between Butler and playwright David Adjmi in a New York diner over a decade ago. Despite not having a single word written yet, Adjmi shared his vision for a play centered around the setting of a recording studio. This initial conversation sparked a creative partnership between the two men, leading to the development of “Stereophonic.” The challenge they faced lay not in producing chart-topping hits but in crafting music that seamlessly integrated into the story, revealing key insights into the characters.
Each song in the play, whether complete or in fragments, serves a specific purpose in shedding light on the band members and their relationships. A standout example is the song “Masquerade,” where the audience witnesses multiple failed attempts before finally experiencing the full performance. This process mirrors the struggles and successes inherent in the collaborative songwriting and recording process that the characters undergo, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
As the production embarks on a national tour, the music adapts and evolves with each performance. Lead actors, such as Peter portrayed by Denver Milord and drummer Simon played by Cornelius McMoyler, bring their unique influences and talents to the music, shaping its sound on a nightly basis. This live musical element adds a level of spontaneity and raw energy to the performances, engaging audiences in a truly immersive experience.
Set against the backdrop of 1976, “Stereophonic” captures the essence of the era’s music production while steering clear of direct imitation. Rather than emulating a specific band or sound, Butler was more interested in exploring the characters’ musical influences and backgrounds to create a cohesive, era-appropriate score that still bears his distinctive musical style. Fans of Arcade Fire may detect subtle echoes of the band in the music, a testament to Butler’s unique musical imprint on the play.
For Butler, “Stereophonic” is not just a reflection on his past with Arcade Fire but a celebration of the collaborative creative process and the emotional journey that unfolds within a recording studio. As audiences immerse themselves in the world of the play, they are transported to an authentic and visceral portrayal of the music-making process. This genuine portrayal of artistic collaboration, combined with live performances and real-time music recording, offers a captivating and enchanting experience for theatergoers.
Experience the magic of “Stereophonic” at Playhouse Square’s Connor Palace from Jan. 6-25. Ticket prices range from $35 to $135, available for purchase on the Playhouse Square website.