Following the massive success of his previous play Leopoldstadt, Tom Stoppard's revival of Rock ’n’ Roll is a captivating exploration of identity, ideology, and the power of music. This time, Stoppard delves into the past and reconnects with his Czech roots, creating a complex and tragically human story, true to his distinctive style.

Spanning from the 1960s to a Rolling Stones’ live concert in Prague in 1990, director Nina Raine takes audiences on a journey through Czechoslovakia’s turbulent sociopolitical landscape, seamlessly shifting between England and Prague. At the heart of the story is Jan (Jacob Fortune-Lloyd), a Czech-born, English-raised rock 'n' roll enthusiast, and Max (Nathaniel Parker), a staunch communist and Jan’s English mentor. In pursuit of personal freedom and self-discovery, Jan decides to move to Prague to immerse himself in the cultural revolution of the Prague Spring of 1968, leaving Max and his family behind, including Max’s daughter, Esme (Phoebe Horn/Nancy Carroll) and the hopes of a would-have-been romance. After the Soviet invasion in 1968 aiming to crush Prague’s cultural revolution, Jan finds a job in a newspaper. Seduced by the illusion that he can write “anything he wants”, this job serves as proof in his mind that the heart of Prague Spring is still beating. However, the increased censorship of the music he so loves, culminating in the arrest of band members of Plastic People of the Underground serves as a turning point for Jan, leading him to re-evaluate his beliefs and take a different stance.

Stoppard's storytelling prowess shines through as he skillfully intertwines political ideologies and the vibrant music scene of the time with the basic human needs of belonging, being understood and being loved. Nina Raine's skilled direction brings his vision to life with the support of a brilliant ensemble cast of actors who bring depth and nuance to the characters. The characters’ journeys are beautifully portrayed, capturing the conflicts and complexities that arise from the burden of growing older, not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally.

The generation gaps between the different characters, but also between their younger and older selves, shine a spotlight on humanity’s collective inability to listen and learn from past mistakes, leaving us stuck in the cyclical nature of history. Jan's ability to recognise his flaws in logic and adapt his position is ultimately what allows him to have a better future and sets him apart from Max who refuses to abandon his ideals. In fact, the entire play urges us to reflect on the balance between idealism and pragmatism, and exposes the discrepancy between the idealised vision of an idea and its actual manifestation.

Music acts as the glue that binds the various elements of the play together, serving as a symbol of rebellion, freedom, and self-expression, as well as beacon of hope amidst the most challenging times.

The universality in Stoppard's work allows audiences to relate to the characters and their experiences regardless of their prior knowledge or understanding of the specific political context, much like how we navigate the twists and turns of real-life politics without always having comprehensive knowledge of the intricate details. By focusing on the human aspect of political situations, Rock ‘n’ Roll offers a nuanced exploration of hope and despair, leaving us with a mix of emotions about the future.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Erifyli Gigante

Rock ‘n’ Roll plays at Hampstead Theatre until 27 January 2024, with further information here.