Port Resident Writes Musical for NYC Festival

Port Washington native Solomon Hoffman has composed a new musical that was selected to the Fringe Festival in August in lower Manhattan.

The musical, “Lydia and Tom,” and was developed by a team of undergraduates at Columbia University, where Hoffman is an undergraduate. The story follows two friends from high school through young adulthood as they are tested by physical distance, diverging interests and romantic tensions. According to the show’s website, “the slice-of-life musical explores the joy and anguish of our formative relationships.” The musical also features an integral modern dance component, with two dancers representing the main characters alongside the two actors. The cast is rounded out by two ensemble members, making for an intimate experience.

A Schreiber High School graduate, Hoffman plays an active role in the Port Washington arts community. He coordinates the Café Music at Dolphin series, conducts the Port Summer Show and frequently performs in the Port schools and at events for HEARTS.

The musical was first developed in the fall of 2012 and performed at Columbia in November. A review of the fall production by a campus blog praised the show’s combination of musical theatre and dance as “innovative and captivating” and called the show “an incredibly crafted piece.” The musical was submitted to the New York International Fringe Festival, the largest multi-arts festival in North America. The festival features nearly 200 shows performing in 20 venues throughout Manhattan over two weeks.

“Lydia and Tom” will have five performances at The Theatre at the 14th Street Y (near 1st Avenue). The performances are Friday August 9th at 6:45 p.m., Saturday August 10th at 12:00 p.m., Wednesday August 14th at 8:45 p.m., Sunday August 18th at 6:45 p.m., and Saturday August 24th at 7:00 pm. Tickets are 15 dollars and can be purchased at www.fringenyc.org. For more information on the show, visit www.lydiaandtomthemusical.com