John Malkovich is set to star in a production of The Music Critic in Israel next year.
According to The Jerusalem Post, Malkovich is scheduled to return to Tel Aviv for the satirical theatrical-musical production on April 13 at the Charles Bronfman Auditorium.
Written and conceived by Russian-German Jewish violinist and composer Aleksey Igudesman, The Music Critic blends classical music with comedy and scathing reviews of some of history’s most celebrated composers. Malkovich embodies an “evil critic” who insults iconic composers including Robert Schumann, Johannes Brahms, Ludwig van Beethoven and Frédéric Chopin.
A live ensemble featuring Igudesman and pianist Hyung-ki Joo performs the music as Malkovich delivers the critiques, culminating in a segment in which he reads a real, harsh review of his own career.
The production has previously toured across Europe and the United States. It has also been released as an official album.
The news comes at a rare time for international bookings in Israel, which have experienced disruptions and boycotts amid the ongoing regional conflict.
Malkovich previously visited Israel in 2008 as a guest of honor at the Jerusalem Film Festival. He returned in 2013 for a stage performance in The Infernal Comedy: Confessions of a Serial Killer at the Eilat International Chamber Music Festival and the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.
“I am thrilled to return to Israel and look forward to meeting the warm Israeli audience once again, to whom I feel a strong closeness and solidarity,” Malkovich said, according to The Jerusalem Post. “I hope to find you happy and optimistic! Sending you much love.”
Earlier this week, Malkovich attended the Venice Film Festival to promote his upcoming film Wild Horse Nine from Martin McDonagh alongside co-stars Steve Buscemi, Tom Waits, Parker Posey and Sam Rockwell. The film received a 14-minute standing ovation following its world premiere, with Malkovich appearing visibly moved and fighting back tears during the response.
The Hollywood Reporter reached out to Malkovich’s reps for additional comment but did not hear back.
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