Coming soon: Shimon Peres - the musical

From his childhood in Polish village all the way to President's Residence, Cameri Theater presents milestones in life of president on stage for one night

Itamar Eichner|Published: 07.10.10 , 13:57

A medley of youth group songs from the period he lived in Ben-Shemen, chansons alongside descriptions of his good relations with the French, his vision to build the reactor in Dimona, and a song by his request. Coming soon to the Cameri Theater: The life of President Shimon Peres in song, dance, and theatrics.

In honor of Peres' 87th birthday this August, the Cameri Theater will put on a musical presenting the president's life story. From his childhood in the village of Vishneva, Poland to his election for president, each period in his life will be played by a different actor. Interspersed between the theatrical sections will be some of Peres' favorite songs, which also will be performed by different artists.

Among the ideas raised for the honorary evening, the theater suggested that periods from his childhood and youth be presented. For instance, the death of his grandfather, who was murdered by the Nazis, will be portrayed as the version of the song 'Avinu Malkeinu' as performed by Barbra Streisand is sung in the background. Peres is a big fan of Streisand.

Sections recounting his recruitment by David Ben-Gurion to the ranks of the Haganah and Peres' role in establishing Israel's military-industrial complex and the construction of the nuclear reactor in Dimona will also be acted out. Various events from his political life will also be shown, such as his election to the presidency and being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

The Cameri Theater already received the president's agreement to participate in the event being held in his honor, and even to be part of creating its content.

The final list of participants has yet to be finalized. However, various artists have already been asked to take part in the event. Others will receive an invitation in the coming days. Among those invited are Rita, Miri Mesika, Yehoram Gaon, Greek singer Glykeria, Riki Gal, Chava Alberstein, Achinoam Nini, Keren Peles, Boaz Sharabi, and Avi Toledano.

Peres has requested that humoristic segments, including imitations, be integrated into the event. Apparently, Eli Yatzpan, a known Israeli satirist, will also be asked to participate.

The evening will be held free-of-charge. IDF handicapped veterans and bereaved families will be invited to the event.

Cameri Director General Noam Semel said on Wednesday to Yedioth Ahronoth, "This is our birthday gift to the president."