The cast of “Goldsetin” – Photo credit Jeremy Daniel
Goldstein is a new Off-Broadway musical playing at the Actor’s Temple Theatre in New York City. Based on a book by Charlie Shulman, it is about the lives of a Jewish family and their interrelationships. This story could be about any family because the themes portrayed are universal. Not only does Goldstein has an interesting story line enhanced by fine music by Michael Roberts, it also provides strong development of the characters, and an ensemble cast who turn in superb performances.
Directed by Brad Rouse, the show opens with an introduction by the character Louis Goldstein who has written a tell all family memoir. The book is successful, but the family does not understand why. They claim that the stories in it are not true. Secrets have been kept throughout the lives of these family members and when they are revealed in this book, there is disbelief. Through storytelling and very descriptive and melodic music, the truth is eventually told.
Goldstein begins with Zelda as an immigrant on a ship to America. She meets and falls in love with another passenger. Their plans to be together do not work out, so she marries Louie Goldstein. The couple work hard and eventually buy a dress shop in Elizabeth, NJ. A family comes along including a son, Nathan, and a daughter, Sherri. Although dad Louie is a pacifist, he his proud when son serves in World War II. During that time, Nathan suffers a great trauma. As he struggles to find peace within himself, he decides to go to medical school, a dream which was denied to his sister, Sherri. Sherri is told to behave and go to college but that’s about all she can expect other than the joys of marriage and motherhood. Nathan marries Eleanor and they have two children: Louis, the book writer, and Miriam. As the story progresses, pieces of information are passed along to various family members without others knowing it. Eventually in the end, all hear what has happened. In a very ethereal manner, the needs of the deceased are addressed as well as the family members still alive.
The characters in the show are developed very carefully so that facets of their personality are exposed to help explain the family dynamics. Zelda is the real strength of the family. Her strength leads to situations which cause problems for others, yet she believes she is doing it for the best. She denies Sherri the opportunity to go to medical school but rejoices when Nathan attends one.
These are the types of things that build resentments and anger within families and are difficult to resolve. But using the words in an advertisement for this show might describe it best: “in a world that does so much to pull us apart, Goldstein is a musical that shows us a way to come back together.” There is a sense of acceptance and forgiveness as the play concludes. It comes gently and it provides an opportunity for reflection on how families come to terms with issues and move on.
The ensemble cast works well together. It includes Megan McGinnis (Sherri), Julie Benko (Miriam), Amie Bermowitz (Zelda), Aaron Galligan-Stierle (Nathan), Zal Owen (Louis), Sarah Beth Pfeifer (Eleanor), and Jim Stanek (Louie).
This was a most enjoyable show to see. It is a musical that will give you a lot to think about and relate to your own family.
additional information about ‘goldstein’
Running Time: Approximately 90 minutes; no intermission
Location: The Actor’s Temple Theatre, 339 West 47th Street, New York City
Performances: Mondays through Thursdays at 7:30PM, Saturdays at 8PM with matinees on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 3PM
Contact for Info and Tickets: Tickets are are available by visiting www.goldsteinmusical.com or calling (212) 239-6200.
Suggested Audience: Family friendly!