RETURN, A MUSICAL
Based on the award winning novel by Sonia Levitin
Book by Sonia Levitin
Music by William Kevin Anderson
Lyrics by Sonia Levitin, Additional Lyrics by Myla Lichtman Fields
SYNOPSIS
RETURN is the story of an African tribe, oppressed and persecuted by its neighbors, faced with extinction. Visitors from America discover them in the high Ethiopian mountains, living out their ancient traditions. They are the Lost Tribe, descendants of King Solomon and the black Queen of Sheba. Impoverished and humiliated, they are constantly threatened by government soldiers, who drag their boys into the army, vandalize their huts and steal their meager food. Now they have the opportunity to escape. The villagers agonize over the decision. The stakes are high, possible arrest and torture or even death, set against the chance for freedom.
Teen age Desta, her older brother, Joas, and little sister, Almaz, set out on foot for Sudan, despite the risks of bandits, soldiers, sickness and hunger. Once in Sudan, they expect to be rescued and brought to the “promised land” of their ancestors. Desta’s motives are not entirely pure. She is trying to avoid an arranged marriage with Dan, grandson of the garrulous old Weizero Channa. But Desta has been deceived. It turns out that Dan is going too, to bring his old grandmother to Jerusalem. Desta leaves, with heart rending farewells from family, friends, and the land she loves so dearly.
Desta, Joas and Almaz become separated from the others. They become lost; only their dream of a better future sustains them. Joas is killed by bandits. Now Desta and Almaz continue the trek on alone, until they are reunited with Dan and Weizero Channa. A drugged-out guide pushes them beyond endurance. The hardships of the journey bring changes in everyone: Desta and Dan’s relationship turns from resentment and anger to the kind of love that makes the ultimate sacrifice possible. Desta emerges as the true heroine, risking her own life to bring Weizero Channa across the border to freedom.
RETURN is based on the true events of Operation Moses, when some 8000 Ethiopian black Jews were brought to Israel in a secret airlift. Events in the drama seem all too real, as they reflect the present day struggle of oppressed Africans, threatened with extinction and begging for help from a world community that seems indifferent to their plight. RETURN is a triumphant story of human courage and compassion
Twenty two songs drive the drama, enhanced by dance numbers that are militant, sensual, compelling. Will Anderson’s contemporary score integrates African rhythms and instruments with modern hip-hop and rap styles and classical “big” Broadway show numbers. African percussion and stringed instruments merge with traditional Western forms, creating an exhilarating tempo that inspires movement and song.