The “hippest trip in America” could become the hippest trip on the Great White Way! Broadway producer Matthew Weaver (Rock of Ages) has acquired the stage rights to Soul Train, the groundbreaking musical variety TV show. Weaver is in talks with film and theater names to join the creative team. Further details will be announced in due course.
“We are putting together a top notch team of artists to ensure Soul Train is the hippest trip on Broadway,” Weaver said in a statement. “We want to thrill the audiences who loved the TV show and introduce the incredible music and style of Soul Train to a new generation.”
Soul Train, created by the late Don Cornelius, is the longest running first-run, nationally syndicated music program in TV history. The show featured performances by R&B, pop, soul, hip hop, funk, jazz, disco and gospel artists and highlighted a diverse cast of dancers. It was reported in 2012 that Soul Train Holdings LLC, owned by NBA legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson, had been trying to mount the TV franchise on Broadway. Weaver bought the theatrical rights from the company.