West End star Nadim Naaman and Qatar-based composer Dana Al Farden will premiere their debut musical Broken Wings in the West End this August.
Following on from a series of London workshops and the recording of a concept album, a semi-staged production of the show which features a book by Naaman and music and lyrics by Naaman and Al Farden, will play the Theatre Royal, Haymarket from 1 to 4 August.
Produced by Ali Matar, the production which will be directed by Bronagh Lagan with orchestrations by Joe Davison, will feature a nine-piece orchestra. Casting will be announced at a later date.
Based on Kahlil Gibran’s autobiographical poetic novel, Broken Wings is the story of the writer’s youthful love affair with a businessman’s daughter in turn of the century Beirut.
Commenting on the latest stage in his project journey to full production Naaman said: “Kahlil Gibran is the Shakespeare of the Middle East, and the third best-selling poet of all time. His views transcend nationality, politics and background, read by all faiths and all ages. He was spiritual but wouldn’t dedicate his life to one particular organisation of religion. Instead, he took the best of all faiths, championing humanity, tolerance and love above all else.
“I still can’t believe that the book hasn’t already been adapted for the stage; it is structured like a play and is awash with musical references. Much like Kahlil Gibran’s life, the creation of this show has been a fusion of both the Middle East and the West, so to be presenting this piece in London, at the stunning Theatre Royal Haymarket, is both fitting and overwhelming.”
The show’s co-creator Al Fardan said: “Kahlil Gibran felt strongly about the universal language of music, often referring to it as the language of the soul. Our musical aims to offer the audience a deeper understanding of both Gibran’s work and the man behind it. We hope it will be both enjoyable and enlightening.”
Due for release on 10 May 2018, the album features Naaman as the older Gibran, who also acts as narrator, and Rob Houchen (Titanic) as the teenage Gibran and Hiba Elchikhe (Aladdin The Musical) as his young sweetheart.
The album also includes: Gillian Budd, Joseph Claus, Nadeem Crowe, Soophia Foroughi, Siubhan Harrison, James Hume, Irvine Iqbal, Nikita Johal, Sami Lamine, Adam Linstead, Leo Miles and Lauren James Ray.
Recently appointed an associate of the Royal Academy of Music where he trained in musical theatre, Naaman’s stage career includes starring roles in major productions including The Phantom of the Opera, Titanic and The Last Five Years.
In 2016 he topped the iTunes UK Vocal Chart with his second album Sides which featured a selection of classic musical theatre songs alongside his own self-penned music.
Angela Thomas
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