Overview
Synopsis
It is 1996, and through an error in pronunciation, the Alexandria Ceremonial Police Orchestra is stranded in the isolated desert town of Bet Havitka, Israel (rather than the city Petah Tikva, their actual destination). Without knowing the language and with very little money, the band members - led by conductor Tewfiq Zakaria - are welcomed by the locals, including cafe owner Dina and her two employees, Papi and Itzik. During this one night in a sleepy town where nothing much changes, the Egyptian band members and their Israeli hosts communicate in English (their only common language) and find their mutual love of music, whether traditional Middle Eastern ballads or American jazz and Chet Baker. Winner of ten Tony Awards and a score based in traditional middle eastern styles (with musicians planted all around the stage), The Band’s Visit appeals to the universal romance and passion people find in music, no matter where they are from.
Show Information
Context
The Band’s Visit is based on the 2007 Israeli film of the same name. The show originally premiered off-Broadway at the Atlantic Theatre Company in December 2016. Receiving critical acclaim, the production won several major awards including the 2017 Obie Award for Musical Theatre and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical. Previews for the Broadway production began on October 7, 2017 at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, opening on November 9, 2017. After 589 performances and 36
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The words “Once, not long ago, a group of musicians came to Israel from Egypt. You probably didn’t hear about it. It wasn’t very important.” are projected onto the stage (“Overture”).
At the Tel Aviv airport, the Alexandria Ceremonial Police Orchestra finds themselves stranded. The van that was meant to pick them up does not arrive and Tewfiq, the stern conductor, decides they must take the bus instead. The Band arrives in Beit Hatikva and we meet the locals: Papi, a young café employee;
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Character Portrayals
See StageAgent members who have performed roles in The Band's Visit.
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Songs
- Overture – The Band
- Waiting – The Residents of Bet Hatikva
- Welcome to Nowhere – Dina, Itzik, Papi
- It Is What It Is – Dina
- Beat of Your Heart – Avrum, Itzik, Simon, Camal
- Soraya – The Band
- Omar Sharif – Dina
- Haj-Butrus – The Band
- Papi Hears the Ocean – Papi
- Haled's Song About Love – Haled, Papi
- The Park (Dialogue Track) – Dina, Tewfiq
- Itgara'a – Tewfiq
- Something Different – Dina, Tewfiq
- Itzik's Lullaby – Itzik and Camal
- Something Different (Reprise) – Dina
- Answer Me – Telephone Guy and Ensemble
- The Concert – The Band
A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number; a character listed in a song with an asterisk (*) by the character's name indicates that the character exclusively serves as a dancer in this song, which is sung by other characters.
Themes, Symbols & Motifs
THEMES
The Power of Human Connection
In The Band's Visit, the theme of human connection emerges as the transformative force that pierces the veil of isolation, illustrating how brief encounters can foster profound empathy and understanding between strangers. When the dignified but weary band members, led by the reserved Colonel Tewfiq, arrive unannounced in Bet Hatikva—a town forgotten by time and progress—local residents like the pragmatic café owner Dina initially view them with
to read about the themes, symbols and motifs from The Band's Visit and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!Key Terms
An adaptation is a reworking of a story from one medium or cultural context into another, such as turning a novel into a play or updating a classic play’s setting. Adaptations often reinterpret themes, characters, and style for new audiences. They can range from faithful recreations to bold reimaginings.
A ballad is a song style that tells a story through simple, lyrical verses and a steady rhythm. In theatre, ballads are often slow and emotional, allowing characters to reveal deep feelings or reflect on personal journeys. They can be used to highlight romance, longing, or moments of dramatic intensity.
A musical genre characterized by syncopation and improvisation, frequently integrated into musical theatre for style and rhythm.
A production created to showcase the talents of a specific star performer, often tailored to their strengths.
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Guide Written By:
Cindi Calhoun
Theatre teacher, director, writer, and seamstress
Emma Houlahan
Canadian vocalist and actor now based in London.