Stereocilia are specialised, non-motile cell projections on the surface of hair cells in the inner ear. They transform the mechanical energy of sound waves into electrical signals for the hair cells, which ultimately lead to an excitation of the auditory nerve, allowing hearing. These cell projetions can be damaged by exposure to loud noises and the ageing process, and genetic factors can also impair their function, leading to hearing loss. In a rather unique instance, stereocilia take the centre stage in a show, Ohio, currently at the Young Vic Theatre, in London, UK, in which hereditary hearing loss is the main theme.