May 8, 2008
Israel to rock the Kodak but hoping for more glam
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Kleinstein's charming front-tooth gap is not the primary reason he's been called "the Elton John of Israel." Both pianist and spirited performer, Kleinstein, like John, is likewise known for his timeless love songs -- sans the kooky wigs and eyewear. For more than 20 years, songs like "Tapuchim U'Tmarim" (Apples and Dates), "Kol Ma She Tirtzi" (Everything You Would Want) and "Harbe Panim" (Many Faces) have become iconic ballads across Israel.Before their split in September 2007, Kleinstein and Rita, both immigrants to Israel at a young age, he from the United States and she from Iran, combined their talents to produce numerous triple-platinum albums. Their 2001 joint tour and subsequent double-disk compilation, "Rita and Rami Live on Stage," were enormously popular. Now on his own, Kleinstein continues to write and produce his own music and will be performing his romantic hits for the crowd at the Kodak.
Incorporating the cultures of Iran, Yemen, the United States, Ethiopia and other countries into their music, the artists chosen to represent Israel at this celebration are a reflection of the musical diversity that has developed in Israel since the country's birth in 1948. This thriving cultural scene is one of many achievements of the Jewish homeland that will be toasted at the Kodak Theatre on Saturday. The Los Angeles community will be gathering to say l'chaim to the very existence of a country that every Jewish person in the world can call home.
Israel's 60th Independence Day Celebration. Saturday, May 10 at 8:45 p.m. $60-$1,000. Kodak Theatre, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. (818) 986-7332. For more information, visit http://www.60at60.org.
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