Soul to Soul

Following last year’s sold-out performance of From Rosenfeld to Robeson, the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene (NYTF) returns to Temple Beth El in Stamford, Conn., on Thursday, June 2, at 7 p.m., with Soul to Soul, an electrifying theatrical concert that explores the intersections between Yiddish and African-American musical traditions.

Conceived and directed by Zalmen Mlotek, NYTF’s artistic director, the concert has been presented throughout the U.S. and features a cross-cultural cast that includes Temple Beth El’s renowned cantor Magda Fishman, international opera and Broadway sensation Elmore James, and songwriter and recording artist Tony Perry.

"This special concert is about building connections across cultures," says Cantor Fishman, "and it is my privilege to join with these gifted artists in presenting it to the Fairfield County community."

With its plaintive Yiddish melodies and evocative blues tunes, Soul to Soul reflects the themes of persecution and deliverance, sadness and optimism that Jews and African Americans share in their separate historical experiences.

Songs will be performed in English and Yiddish with English and Russian supertitles displayed on stage. A dessert reception will follow.

General admission seats are available at $36 per person and $10 for students. Tickets at the door are $45 per person and $18 for students. To purchase tickets, go to tinyurl.com/tbecc2016. For further information, contact the TBE office at (203) 322-6901, ext. 301, or office@tbe.org.