Yaron Kafkafi

Yaron Kafkafi

a composer, playwright and director based in Israel

Yaron Kafkafi: The Maestro Behind Israel's Musical Renaissance


In the realm of musical theater, few names shine as brightly as Yaron Kafkafi's. For more than three decades, he has been a creative force to be reckoned with, making a profound impact on Israel's cultural landscape. Kafkafi is not just a composer; he's a visionary, a lyricist, a playwright, and a director par excellence. With over 20 hit musicals to his name, he's earned the rightful title of "King of Musicals" in Israel.
The Man Behind the Curtain:
Born with an innate passion for storytelling through music, Yaron Kafkafi embarked on his journey into the world of musical theater at a young age. His dedication and talent soon caught the attention of both critics and audiences alike, setting the stage for an illustrious career.
Kafkafi's Remarkable Repertoire:
Yaron Kafkafi's body of work is a testament to his immense talent and unwavering dedication. Throughout his career, he has penned and directed a slew of iconic musicals, each leaving an indelible mark on the Israeli theater scene.


Yaron Kafkafi's remarkable career has been marked by an unwavering dedication to crafting emotionally resonant narratives through iconic musicals. From his early masterpiece "Blood Brothers" to his enchanting adaptation of "The Wizard of Oz," each production, including the high-octane "Around the World in 80 Days," the whimsical "Speed and His Magic Wheels," and the swashbuckling "The Three Musketeers," has left an indelible mark on the Israeli theater scene. Kafkafi's ability to reimagine classic tales, such as "Peter Pan" and "King Arthur," with his unique artistic vision, showcases his versatility as both a composer and director. Furthermore, his exploration of profound themes in works like "Noah's Ark," "Born in Jerusalem," and "Glory" reflects his talent for crafting powerful stories with enduring messages.

Broadway Bound:
Yaron Kafkafi's brilliance has transcended borders. His original musicals, "#messiah" and "David," have garnered international attention and are currently in the process of being adapted for Broadway. This development is a testament to the universal appeal of his storytelling and music.

Yaron Kafkafi is a true luminary in the world of musical theater. With a remarkable career spanning over 30 years, he has captivated audiences with his imaginative storytelling, memorable compositions, and visionary direction. As his works continue to transcend cultural boundaries and find new audiences on Broadway, there's no doubt that Yaron Kafkafi's legacy as the "King of Musicals" will endure for generations to come.

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Yaron Kafkafi may be the most deserving Israeli director for the title “King of Musicals”.
Hemmi Uzan – Zman Tel-Aviv – Mar. 11, 2005

On march 2018, Yaron had the privilege of performing his own TED talk in TEDxTel-Aviv, presenting his original theory of The 5 elements of making your dreams come true.
His entire talk is now available though TED websites and apps internationally.

ted.com

Reviews

Highlights of press and media reviews 1992-2015

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Messiah 2015
Beyond the well-structured play, it’s the superb music he composed, the transitions that never cease to surprise, and the diversity of talent that exhibit no parallels in Israel.
Merav Yudilovitch - Ynet - Dec. 9, 2015
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King of Siam 2012
The Hebrew adaptation of the book by Yaron Kafkafi turned to be extremely successful, alongside the fluent plot, and the King’s hilarious idiomatic phrases, he also successfully supplies moral themes of linking between the different culture and accepting the other.
Michal Ben-Ari, Lihiyot Horim – Jan. 15, 2013
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DAVID 1992
The audience was glued to its chair and wouldn't get up... A biblical musical which is funny and witty.
Rennen Mosinzon - Tel Aviv Magazine - 1992
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Speed and the Magic Wheels 2003
“Speed and the Magic Wheels” is a collaboration between 2 of the hottest names in the family entertainment. The first is Eno Rozen, expert in impressive physical theatre. The second is Yaron Kafkafi, who is accountable for a few styled stirring blockbusters musicals.
Shai Bar-Yaackov – Yediot Ahronot – Dec. 22, 2003
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Around the World in Eighty Days 1999
Yaron Kafkafi adapted Jules Verne’s novel to a play, he’s also responsible for the music and the direction. His direction is meticulous and rhythmic, and the music is catchy and diverse. He is excellent in merging music with staging and plot, thus creates harmony between the different layers.
Yehuda Biton - HaAretz - Dec. 5, 1999
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Living Example 2004
Best original musical 2004 - “Living Example” a brilliant creative professional show. Its content touches the hearts of all ages. A musical that strongly addresses its audiences.
The Tel-Aviv “Theatrical Autumn Festival” academy - October 2004