About the Show

A gripping drama of love and survival between a hip-hop artist and an Afghan interpreter in Kabul.

A powerful new drama that explores love, survival, and the sacrifices we make for the people we cherish. Duke & Roya tells the compelling story of Duke (Ellis), a globally renowned hip-hop artist, and Roya (Nur), a brave Afghan interpreter, who form an unexpected yet profound connection in the heart of war-torn Kabul. As their love blossoms against all odds, they must navigate deep cultural divides, personal sacrifices, and an unforgiving world that seeks to pull them apart. Can their love endure the challenges that threaten to tear them apart?

From acclaimed playwright Charles Randolph-Wright and visionary director Warren Adams, this breathtaking production features a stellar cast, including Olivier Award winner Noma Dumezweni and Dariush Kashani (Oslo, The Band’s Visit). Brought to life by Tony® winners Laura Ivey and Janet Brenner, alongside Smada Media and Get Lifted Film Co.’s Emmy® and Tony® winner Mike Jackson, Emmy® Award winner Ty Stiklorius, and EGOT winner John Legend, Duke & Roya is an unforgettable theatrical experience.

With themes of love, identity, and resilience, Duke & Roya is a timely and thrilling production that captivates audiences with its emotional depth and urgency.

Critic Reviews (9)

"It’s a solid comic beat, but like the play, it’s not enough to fall for, or to bridge a cultural divide."
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"With its strong performances and nuanced script, 'Duke & Roya' challenges audiences to consider the ways we connect and the risks worth taking for love."
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"A mix of high points and mediocre ones, 'Duke & Roya' is successful as a romantic drama but less so as political one."
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"Like Duke's hip-hop act, it never feels quite honest."
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"engrossing rom-com with a geo-political background offers engaging TV stars Ellis and Nur"
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“Duke and Roya” successfully tackles themes of cultural differences, the impact of war, identity, and the challenges of maintaining a relationship across vastly different worlds and circumstances.
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lands somewhere in-between pointed tale and romance, not completely satisfying as either
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Jay Ellis exudes a bragodocious swagger–as well as a gift for rapid-fire lyrical word delivery that’s truly astonishing. And Stephanie Nur matches Ellis’s charisma with a corresponding level of demure flirtation.
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