DUKE & ROYA

BY CHARLES RANDOLPH WRIGHT | LUCILLE LORTEL THEATRE

A bold new play about romance, identity, and culture, Duke & Roya tells the resilient love story of when Duke, an American hip-hop superstar, meets a fearless Afghan interpreter, Roya, in the heart of war-torn Kabul. They learn to navigate the stark realities of their worlds—his of global fame, hers of survival—through a romantic relationship that challenges their beliefs, risks their safety, and redefines what it means to fight for love. Led by Jay Ellis and Stephanie Nur, Duke & Roya explores high-stakes romance and the choices we make.

David came on board to manage the show with Jessie Douglas for producer, Warren Adams.

The Off Broadway production of Duke & Roya by Charles Randolph Wright played at the Lucille Lortel Theatre from June 10 - August 2, 2025.

Directed by Warren Adams, set design by Wilson Chin, costume design by Sabrina Spanta, lighting design by Amina Alexander, sound design by Taylor J. Williams, and projection design by Caite Hevner. Produced by Smada Media, Laura Ivey and Janet Brenner.

Photography: Jeremy Daniel