The Music Man - July 2011!

The Music Man was a hit in Zichron Ya'akov, Jerusalem, Ra'anana, Ramat Aviv and Modi'in.

Boasting a live orchestra, a professional Barbershop Quartet (Chutzpah!), incredibly talented lead actors and some delightful kids who stole the show, The Music Man was a real treat for all who saw it, and those who were in it!

Pictures from the production

The Show and The Cast and Crew

Directed by Yisrael Lutnick, and starring Howard Metz and Shani Wahrman, this marvelous story engaged audiences across Israel.

With the impressive backdrop of a real Mississippi River Town, the wonderful choreography of Assaf Berznitzky and the period costumes provided by JEST and LOGON, the stage was alive with color, to match the sound of the orchestra, conducted by Eliah Zabaly, and the chorus, directed by co-star Shani Wahrman (Marian the Librarian in the play).

Feedback received

From the audience:

"I wanted to tell you how much we enjoyed the production of the Music Man. I've been to several other regional productions and this was equal to and better than some. We especially enjoyed the lovely and very professional voice of your leading lady (Shani Wahrman) and the Barber Shop Quartet. But the whole production was well directed...the dancing too. So please pass this on to the producers of the show. We travelled from Maalot but it was worth the trip. Thank you." Carol P.

"Music Man is a great musical, that I, personally, could watch again and again, and never get tired of it. It is full of colors, fun, and humor. All the characters are funny and different from each other, and the songs and music are enjoyable to listen to." Aviyah, age 12.

"That Marion has a voice to die for. That male dancer has movements to die for. That multi-aged cast was delicious. Loved the children..." Toby G.

"I enjoyed the show and especially the lead performances: Shani Wahrmann, Chutzpah - they are very high level performers." Sharon B.

"We really enjoyed the show (Modi'in). Thanks everyone for all your hard work - it was great!" Louise F.

"We LOVED the show! Great work! Terrific performance!! My compliments." Melanie R.

From the actors:

"I left the theatre on Sunday torn between the high from the impeccable closing performance and the depressed feeling due its conclusion. I'm still constantly thinking about the show, about all of you, the extraordinary cast and crew... seriously, this was one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my life, and I thank you all so much."

"Thank you all for the thrill of a lifetime, and special thanks to Israel Musicals for having the vision to pull this all together."

"Many thanks for the opportunity for the kids to participate in the show! They had a great time, learned a lot and will remember this forever!"

The Music Man: a Heartwarming Treat for Kids of All Ages

An affectionate paean to Smalltown, U.S.A. of a bygone era, Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man” follows fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill as he cons the people of River City, Iowa into buying instruments and uniforms for a kids' band he vows to organize – this despite the fact he doesn’t know a trombone from a treble clef. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian the librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen by curtain’s fall.

When Music Man won the Tony award for best musical, which show came in second?

In 1957, The Music Man was awarded the Tony for best musical, beating out the other classic show from that year, West Side Story. How can that be? Well, 76 Trombones, the hometown kids of River City, and the warm feeling of everything turning out good in the world make this show a timeless classic. The energy, the humanity and the joy just proved to be irresistible.

Your Kid Will Want Piano Lessons

Harold Hill unwittingly transforms the lives of the young people of River City. He teaches them the "Think System," which, while it may not be a recognized musical instruction method, it teaches something far more important. It teaches kids to have confidence and believe in themselves. When we see that, we will be inspired to start making our own music!

Head Straight for Trouble, with a Capital T!

The Music Man is a fantastic family entertainment with a life-changing educational message: believe in yourself and make music! The neighbors may complain about the racket, but you and your kids will be having the time of your lives.