Dr Strangelove: Steve Coogan’s Atomic Tour de Force on Stage

The stage adaptation of Dr Strangelove is part of a growing trend of reimagining iconic films for the theatre. While most of these adaptations are musicals, this is a play version of the legendary 1964 black comedy directed by Stanley Kubrick. The original film starred Peter Sellers in three roles, and in this stage version, Steve Coogan steps into the spotlight, taking on four roles. Not only does he portray the characters Sellers played – Dr Strangelove, an RAF officer, and the American President – but he also takes on the role of the American bomber pilot, famously seen riding a nuclear missile during its descent. Sellers had been slated to play this role but was unable to after breaking his ankle.

As one of the classic black comedies, Dr Strangelove remains unforgettable. I’ve loved it since my teenage years, back in a time before video, when I poured over the script and accompanying pictures in a book. The plot revolves around a deranged American general who orders a missile strike on the Soviet Union, citing bizarre reasons, including the fluoridation of water supplies. In the war room, we witness the President and his advisors attempting to recall the missiles and considering various desperate options to avert disaster.

Steve Coogan is masterful here. Clever and astute, he avoids imitating Sellers, instead offering fresh interpretations of the characters. His RAF officer has a faint air of King Charles, while his American President doesn’t appear to be based on any real-life figure. These portrayals are not caricatures but fully rounded characters with depth.

Then there’s Coogan’s take on Dr Strangelove, the eccentric German scientist in a wheelchair, complete with artificial limbs. His uncontrollable hand frequently grabs his throat or, at the worst moments, rises in a Nazi salute. It’s hilariously dark and satirical – in very bad taste but undeniably funny. Dr Strangelove is widely considered a thinly veiled caricature of Wernher von Braun, the Nazi rocket scientist recruited by NASA after World War II. Tom Lehrer famously satirised von Braun in his song lyrics:

“Once the rockets go up, who cares where they come down?
That’s not my department, says Wernher von Braun.”

For those familiar with the film, the challenge of portraying characters who interact in the same scenes is ingeniously solved here through the use of doubles and video. It’s a feat that keeps Coogan busy, whether on stage or rushing backstage for quick changes.

This isn’t just a showcase for Coogan’s talent. The production features strong support from a talented cast, including Giles Terera – best known as the original Aaron Burr in the West End production of Hamilton – as General Turgidson, a role memorably played by George C. Scott in the film. The production is very much a “boys’ club,” with just one female character appearing briefly at the end – I won’t spoil the surprise!

While I initially felt the production didn’t add much to the original film and questioned claims about its relevance, recent global developments have altered my perspective. With renewed fears of a nuclear arms race and debates over fluoridation resurfacing, the themes feel disturbingly prescient.

If you love the film as much as I do, you’ll find this a faithful adaptation with some clever twists. And if dark comedy and sharp performances appeal to you, this production is well worth seeing.

Discover the best of London’s theatre, arts, and culture with EyeOnLondon. Stay informed with our insightful reviews, insider stories, and must-see recommendations.

Follow us on:

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!