By TALI MINSBERG
As schools and offices quiet down during the High Holy Days, the Holon Theater is revving up. Holon, which has become a cultural center catering to children and families, is getting ready to hold its annual "Sounds of Childhood" festival. The Holon Municipality initiated the festival nine years ago to give children a chance to explore the world of culture and art. "Most of us consume artistic education through television, commercials and cinema," explains "Sounds of Childhood" director, Guy Tellman. "These days, there is not much exposure to high quality art, dance, music and theater."
For the past eight years of the festival, world famous musicians, composers and dancers have come to Holon to inspire Israeli children and their families. "The audience knows that we have many surprises in store every year," Tellman says. "High art performers come gather in Holon over Sukkot vacation - the best musicians imaginable will be on stage - tickets will go quick."
A highlight of the festival includes music composed by one of Israel's greatest composers, Rami Kleinstein. Kleinstein's composition will not be played traditionally, however. Instead, rhythm and dance artists will create sound by drumming on their own bodies. The performance, Tellman describes, is "…really something in-between music and rhythm."
The festival hopes to not only expose families to high art, but give them an interactive experience as well. "The Four Seasons," a featured concert, is one performance meant to both captivate and educate viewers. The concert will continue after the music ends, with an explanation of music, methods, instruments and structure.
Another unique opportunity will be presented at a dance performance. Upon entering the venue, each individual will receive a personal headphone set. As the performance begins, audience members can select their own soundtrack. The dance was choreographed in a way to work with different types of music, so that each audience member can have a unique viewing experience.
Before the festival kicks off, an adult concert and gala will be held on Sunday night, October 4, to benefit the Edith Wolfson Medical Center in Holon.
The family-oriented festival coincides with Sukkot, starting Monday, October 5 and running through Wednesday, October 7.
For more information visit the Holon theater website, www.hth.co.il or call 03-502-3010.
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