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An Original Musical
Book & Lyrics: Shachar (Shar) Shamai
Music: Guy Frati
Sonia is a dramatic song cycle inspired by the compelling story of Sonia Peres, the wife of Shimon Peres, one of the most important politicians in the history of Israel and the middle-east. The show places Sonia at the centre for the first time, revealing the emotional complexity of a woman who chose a life out of the limelight while supporting a man whose public duty often overshadowed their personal life. Their relationship unfolds over six decades and is interwoven with pivotal moments in Israel’s national story - from the early Zionist dream through political upheavals and moral dilemmas. The show was picked up by Haifa Theatre in collaboration with The Revolution Orchestra, and was staged with an 11-piece ensemble and a cast of three.
We’re currently adapting the show to English and are curious about how it will resonate with UK audiences—particularly in a more interactive and intimate setting with actor-musicians, as we originally intended.
And here are two English demoes from the show:
Israeli production official pics:
English adaptaion creative team:
Shachar (Shar) Shamai - Book & Lyrics
Shar is an Israel-born, London-based librettist, lyricist, poet, composer, and director. A graduate of the Guildford School of Acting (GSA), his work explores themes of identity, migration, and queerness, with a strong focus on musical theatre. He is currently developing two original musicals and is part of London’s prestigious BML program for emerging musical theatre writers.
Shar is the founder of The JEWish CABARET, a collective creating multicultural, immigrant, and LGBTQ+-focused performances. Their debut musical Café Named Desire received acclaim in London and toured Israel. Their current project, STAGES, highlights the experiences of immigrant artists in the UK.
His poetry has been internationally recognized, inspiring short films and winning awards including first prize in the Helicon competition. Alongside his creative work, Shar has over 15 years of experience as a vocal coach and educator in the UK and internationally.
Guy Frati - Composer
Guy Frati is a composer, pianist, arranger, and vocal coach. He holds a Master’s degree in Music (Composition) from the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance and is an alumnus of the Royal Academy of Music in London's Musical Direction course. His professional credits include musical direction for Waitress and Dear Evan Hansen at the Cameri Theatre in Tel Aviv.
In 2023, his debut musical, co-written with Shahar Shamai, premiered at Haifa Theatre in a production featuring acclaimed actress Miki Kam and the Revolution orchestra.
Lucie Raine - Director & Choreographer
Lucie is a multi-disciplined theatre maker based in West Yorkshire. Her recent works include The Flood for AKA Theatre Company, Northern Tour (Writer and Director) and Hush Hush! for Mikron Theatre Company (Writer). Coming from a dance background, Lucie has also worked extensively as a Choreographer and Dance Coach, most recently teaching Choreography at Leeds Conservatoire.
Anna Oggero - Producer
Originally from Italy, Executive Producer Anna Oggero is a London-based theatre producer, educator and performer. Anna's work includes producing roles for projects with Royal and Derngate, Bristol Old Vic, The Marlowe Theatre, Omnibus Theatre, Trinacria Theatre Company, the JEWish Cabaret, and Opera Co-Pro Ltd. In 2024 she was awarded one of the coveted inaugural Achates Community Fellowships. In 2025, alongside Artistic Director Maria Aberg, Anna led PROJEKT EUROPA to win The International Award at The Stage Awards for its dedication to global collaboration and accessibility in theatre.