REVIEW | Hit Machine, Soho Theatre - London

Harry Brogan
Jul 16
3 min read

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'Hit Machine' is a new play by American playwright Jonathan Caren, opening for a limited run at Soho Theatre with direction by Daniel Bailey and music by Ben Harper and CJ Harper.

The protagonists are Wes (Josh Radnor), a successful music producer, and his little brother Alex (Noah Galvin), an up-and-coming musician trying to make it in a cutthroat industry. They reunite in Wes’ new 8-bedroom family home where Alex, barely scraping by, is confronted with just how different their lives have turned out. The two have a complex relationship, shaped by competition, family drama and traumatic events, with music uniting them and acting as the anchor that keeps them both afloat.

The play disguises itself as a comedy with a looming darkness that slowly reveals itself. Galvin is the star of the show, creating an ever-evolving Alex who initially has the whole audience erupting in laughter as he clashes with Wes’ grumpy demeanor, before leading us through a profound exploration of past traumas that inevitably shatter his happy-go-lucky facade. Alex’s attempts at meaningful and hopeful connections are repeatedly rejected by a distant and emotionally unavailable Wes, as Josh Radnor expertly portrays a disinterested and disheartened older brother, barely present, missing much of Alex’s life.

Wes’ head is constantly buried in his work phone as he tries to sign Defy The Leader (Khalil Madovi), a rapper, to his record label. The tension between the brothers is palpable, with sharp words reopening wounds that have never healed. The story turns darker when Defy arrives at Wes’ home and Alex pitches one of his creations as the rapper's new hit single. What follows is an intense confrontation that forces both brothers to relive painful family history. Galvin and Radnor both deliver outstanding performances, navigating rapid shifts between comedy, vulnerability and emotional conflict. Madovi also shines in a final performance quickly turning any audience member into a long time fan.

The creative process behind writing music becomes the play’s true central character: a language that allows the brothers to express emotions they cannot seem to articulate otherwise. Ben Harper and CJ Harper’s music alongside Khalil Madovi’s additional music and lyrics, give the production authenticity especially as both Galvin and Madovi perform most of the pieces as if they’re getting written right at that moment, creating excitement in the audience to see what will come to life.

The costume and set design by Amelia Jane Hankin are simple yet effective, with immaculate white sofas and bold contemporary artwork reflecting Wes’ success and apparent immense wealth. But all that glitters is not gold.

Possibly to make the action feel closer to the audience, the stage sits at the same level as the auditorium. Unfortunately, most of the play is performed seated, meaning that even from the third row, significant moments you wouldn’t want to miss are obscured. This is particularly noticeable during a central emotional scene towards the end, where you are left relying on the actors’ voices, unable to fully see their expressions.

'Hit Machine' is a heartfelt exploration of family, ambition and the bonds that try to endure despite years of hurt and misunderstanding. With remarkable performances, especially Noah Galvin's, it balances witty humour with emotional honesty to create a deeply moving portrait of two brothers struggling to reconnect. It's a thoughtful and thought-provoking production that’s worth seeing.

★★★★

Hit Machine plays at Soho Theatre until Saturday 15th August: https://sohotheatre.com/events/hit-machine/