stage Soul Doctor, premiered Off Broadway in 2012,
then moved to Broadway in 2013. It was then reworked and it reopened Off Broadway again in 2014. The show received critical success with each production. It tells the true story of Rabbi Schlomo Carlebach
and his journey from Rabbi to legendary musician. His journey starts in Austria, where as a young child he witnesses a murder of a Jewish man who is singing in the streets. He vows to himself at that moment to stand up for freedom through the use of music. His family moves to New York City where he prepares to follow in his father’s footsteps by be- coming a Rabbi, but that path comes to a halt when he meets legendary jazz vocalist Nina Simone. It’s here that Schlomo’s plans take a turn that will put him on the map as the “Rockstar Rabbi.” Director Gabriel Barre explained that the
show has gone through some changes from its original Broadway production. “This show, has had a long, rich and full history,” Barre said, “including produc- tions in New Orleans, Florida, and in New York…on and off Broadway. I came aboard a few months ago and we have reinvigorated the show with a new approach.” In this version Schlomo goes to Vienna
the chance to work with the director again. “Gabe [Barre] told me his ideas for revamping this show for the world to see and I loved what he said,” Young revealed. “I don’t want to spoil it, so I’ll just say, you don’t want to miss this. It’s a completely unique and reimagined show from the one that was in NYC.” Young was not familiar with the show itself but did
THE FREEDOM OF MUSIC
by tom andrew josh young
know about its runs in New York. His family on the other hand, knew a lot about Rabbi Schlomo, and told him that his grandfather played Schlomo’s music all the time. “Shlomo was a Jew who escaped Vienna during the Holocaust,” Young added. “My mother’s side of the family did the same, many of them tried and didn’t make it, same as Shlomo’s family. So, I have connections to Shlomo on both sides of the family. I’m honoring those who have passed on in my family by spreading Shlomo’s love and ideas through this incredible story and his timeless music.” Playing the younger version of Schlomo is San
to perform with Nina Simone and receives a surprise visit from his father who questions his son’s loyalty to their faith, culture and heritage. “The show recounts the events in Shlomo’s life, Barre added. “This made him such a dimensional, controversial character in the service of explaining his upcoming trip to his father…and the result is a rich, theatrical retelling of the Shalom story!” The musical features Schlomo as an adult and as
a teenager and how the events in his life lead him on the path that he eventually ends up taking. Playing the adult Schlomo is Josh Young, who made a name for himself on Broadway with shows like Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas), for which he received a Tony nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical, andAmazing Grace (John). This marks the second time that
Young and Barre have worked together. Young was anxious to get
dylan hoffinger
Diego actor Dylan Hoffinger. Many audiences may remember him from shows at Cygnet Theatre (Parade) and Diversionary Theatre (Harmony, Kansas). Hoffinger is thrilled to be a part of this tour and even happier that it’s making its first stop here in his hometown. “After a two year hiatus from the stage, training in New York City, I’m proud to be booked on my first gig with Soul Doctor,” Hoffin- ger said. “I’m really excited to show audiences how I’ve changed and grown as an artist.” As for what the show can offer to the LGBTQ community, Hoffinger makes it clear that while the show may not have an LGBTQ storyline, it’s still an important piece with things that will resonate with the community. “This show doesn’t have a directly expressed LGBTQ storyline,” Hoffinger shared.” [But] the themes parallel with many of the struggles our community faces today. I challenge the LGBTQ audience to see our show and find the parallels. I believe the messages here [in Soul Doctor] are so in line with what we [the LGBTQ community] are about,
and that being said, this show needs to be seen and heard more than ever--for all humanity.”
Soul DoctorrunsTuesday, April 3 through Sunday, April 22 at theLyceuminDowntown San Diego. The show makes its
director gabriel barre
next appearance at theSaban TheatreinBeverly Hillsfrom Thursday, May 3 through Sunday, May 13. For tickets and more information, go
tosouldoctorontour.com.
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RAGE monthly | APRIL 2018
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