According to representatives, director-choreographer Mindy Cooper has made several significant changes to the production, which is now performed without an intermission. In addition, "the cast of players now tell the story and allows the audience to participate in the Shlomo experience."
Actor-musician Josh Nelson and Wicked actress Dan'yelle Williamson will co-star as Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach and Nina Simone, respectively, in a cast that will also feature Dianna Barger, Debra Cardona, Jacob Heimer, Anthony Laciura, Don Meehan, Hayden Wall, Lee Hollis Bussie, Rosalie Graziano, Janelle McDermoth, Erin Mosher, John Plumpis and Jesse Swimm.
Soul Doctor will officially open Dec. 14.
According to creators, "Soul Doctor takes the audience on an exhilarating musical journey and explores the dramatic life of a cultural icon set in the transformative era of the Love generation. It tells the fascinating story of the father of popular Jewish music, Shlomo Carlebach, and his unlikely friendship with Nina Simone, the high priestess of Soul. A modern-day troubadour, Shlomo ignited the spirit of millions around the world with his soul-stirring melodies, transformative storytelling and boundless love."
Conceived by producer Jeremy Chess, created by David Schechter and Daniel S. Wise, Soul Doctor has a book by Wise, lyrics by Schechter and music by Shlomo Carlebach, with additional material by Neshama Carlebach. The musical, which came to Broadway last season following engagements in New Orleans, Florida and as a guest run at the New York Theatre Workshop in 2012, began Broadway previews July 17, 2013, and officially opened Aug. 15. It ended its run Oct. 13, 2013, after only 32 previews and 66 regular performances.
Scenic design is by David Goldstein, costume design is by Tristan Raines, lighting design is by Zach Blane, sound design is by Raymond Schilke, projection design is by Brad Peterson, and orchestrations and additional arrangements are by Steve Margoshes. Seth Faber is the music director, Jim Morgan is the associate nusic director.
For tickets visit TeleCharge.com. The Actors Temple Theatre is located at 339 West 47th Street.
