Hippest Trip: American Conservatory Theatre premieres 'The Soul Train Musical'

SAN FRANCISCO -- American Conservatory Theatre's "Hippest Trip - The Soul Train Musical" encourages audiences to take a trip back to 1971's Chicago when Black entrepreneur and radio DJ Don Cornelius transformed the pop culture landscape.

"Boldness, creativity, pride, 'Hippest Trip' is a story of Soul Train, the longest-running music and dance show on American television," said Kamilah Forbes, director of The Soul Train Musical. "One of the first television shows where we saw Black culture, Black innovation, Black dance, Black music on television that was also produced by Black creators that was being exported to the world."

The musical tells the story of Don Cornelius, the founder, creator, and host of Soul Train. It also shares how Soul Train dancers left a lasting impact on American cultural history, as well as dance history.

Features hip hop, jazz, and modern dance, the production is sure to have audiences dancing in the aisles.

"I really love the opportunity that I get to dive into so many worlds," said Camille A. Brown, the production's choreographer. "I've been working in theater for almost 10 years, and this is the most dancing that I've had the honor of being able to put in one show."

One of the core themes of The Soul Train Musical is family and how the TV show brought viewers joy and a sense of pride.

"I grew up watching Soul Train, I grew up watching the performances, the dancers, the musicians that all appeared on this show," said Forbes. "I think Soul Train was such a success because it was one of a kind people wanting to see themselves reflected authentically."

Hippest Trip performer, Sequoiia added, "This feels like it's every part of me like I get to showcase a lot of my soul and my art."

Don't miss your chance to see Hippest Trip - The Soul Train Musical at the American Conservatory Theatre. More information here.