*The Soul Train is taking a trip to Broadway, with “CSI” creator Anthony E. Zuiker on board to pen the classic show’s musical adaptation.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Zuiker will reteam with “Rock of Ages” producer Matthew Weaver for the project. The pair’s previous collaboration was for at TriStar Pictures on “The Harlem Globetrotters Story,” an effort that was never completed.
The “Soul Train” musical will be Zuiker’s first experience writing a Broadway musical. Weaver’s MediaWeaver Entertainment acquired theatrical stage rights to “Soul Train” last year.
“I speak from the heart when I say that Soul Train touched me deeply,” said Zuiker in a statement. “It has impacted this country on so many levels, bringing joy and hope to so many people out there, including me.”
Created in 1970 by Don Cornelius, “Soul Train” was known for shining a light on a who’s who of groundbreaking artists and becoming a deep cultural influence as it went on to become the longest-running, first-run, nationally syndicated music program in television history.
For the musical, the Reporter notes it will be a “lyrical narrative,” that will combine the personal story of Cornelius with more than 20 classic hit songs from “Soul Train, including “Proud Mary” (Ike & Tina Turner), “I’ll Be Around” (The Spinners), “Loving You” (Minnie Riperton), and “Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me ” (Gladys Knight & The Pips).
“His commitment to Soul Train, the era, the people and the music is unbridled, and his willingness to share his passion and vision with the Soul Train community is what makes him such an original,” Weaver said about Zuiker’s passion for “Soul Train.” “Anthony’s vision for Soul Train the musical is emotional, deep, funny, edgy and authentic. I think people are going to be very surprised and deeply touched.”
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