John Malkovich Returns to Israel for Satirical Play

Hollywood actor John Malkovich is set to visit Israel in April to present his satirical play, "The Music Critic." The performance is scheduled for April 13 at the Tel Aviv Opera House, produced in Israel by Alon Yurik.

Malkovich expressed his enthusiasm for returning to Israel, stating, "I am happy to return to Israel and will be very happy to meet the warm Israeli audience again, with whom I feel great closeness and solidarity. I hope to see you happy and optimistic! Sending you much love."

"The Music Critic" combines theater, humor, and classical music, featuring Malkovich as a "mean critic" alongside the show's creator, musician and comedian Aleksey Igudesman, and pianist Hyung-ki Joo. The production, which has toured internationally, uses sharp and humorous reviews of classical music pieces, accompanied by live performances of works by composers such as Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Debussy, Prokofiev, and Piazzolla.

Malkovich, 72, is a well-known figure in Israel and globally, recognized for his roles in films like "Places in the Heart," for which he received an Oscar nomination, "Dangerous Liaisons," and "Being John Malkovich."

He has a history of supporting Israel, having previously signed petitions and statements in support of the country and its right to self-defense, and has spoken out against the BDS movement's cultural boycott. Malkovich previously visited Israel in July 2008 for the Jerusalem International Film Festival, where he received an award for his contribution to cinema, and again in May 2013 with the play "The Satanic Comedy."

Alon Yurik, the Israeli producer, commented on Malkovich's willingness to perform in Israel, calling it "impressive" and "another step towards strengthening trust in the effort to bring major international productions back to Israel."