David Byrne's American Utopia (12A)

Members' Screening

Sun 16 Aug 2026, 11:00 ,Cinema 3

David Byrne and an ensemble of performers dance in front of a grey-green curtain.

Spike Lee documents the wildly popular Broadway show from legend David Byrne, blending music, dance and spoken word alongside classics from Talking Heads.

In his Broadway show American Utopia, former Talking Heads lead and beloved renaissance man David Byrne uses contemporary dance, spoken reflections, works by James Baldwin and Janelle Monáe, alongside Talking Heads classics (expect Once in a Lifetime, Burning Down the House and Road to Nowhere) to reflect on human nature. It asks how we can work together to make our time on this planet more just, equitable, and righteous.

Byrne is joined by an ensemble of musicians in constant motion on a minimalist stage, and director Spike Lee shifts perspectives between performers and audience – transforming American Utopia from a typical concert documentary to an immersive, dynamic experience. As the show unfolds with intimacy and urgency, it calls for anti-fascism and anti-racism, and ultimately a hopeful vision for unity and civic engagement.

Tagged with: Cinema Members' Priority Booking Members' Screenings

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Cinema 3

Location
Barbican Cinema 2 & 3 are located on Beech Street, a short walk from the Barbican’s Silk Street entrance. From Silk Street, you’ll see a zebra crossing that will take you across the road to the venue.

Address
Beech Street
London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.