Sami Raad can been seen in the '07-'08 EVITA National Tour as Magaldi, under the Tony nominated director Larry Fuller. The Andrew Lloyd Weber musical includes the original Hal Prince Broadway staging and choreography, and produced by Troika Entertainment. Check out the performances page for itinerary, pictures, and ticket information. The son of Lebanese and Korean parents, Sami was involved in theater and music throughout his global upbringing. Born in Singapore, and spending much of his life in Korea, Thailand, Beirut, London, Japan, and India, Sami moved to the United States at the age of eleven with his mother and younger brother. After receiving his American naturalization in 2008, Sami is thrilled to be embarking on an exciting career in theater and recorded music as a new United States citizen.
Sami obtained his American studies degree from Oberlin, while simultaneously studying vocal performance with professor Marlene Rosen, and performing in various theater productions such as, "Songs for a New World," "West Side Story," and Diana Son's "Stop Kiss." In 2005 Munib and colleague James Anderson co-produced and performed in a a fundraising jazz vocal concert for the Cleveland Free Clinc's HIV prevention program titled, "A Tribute to Cole Porter." Check out the Media page for various recordings.
In New York, Sami completed a regional engagement as Lun Tha at Broadhollow Theater Company's production of "The King and I," and continued his studies with the CAP 21 Professional Program. He also performed in the premiere of "4D, A Metaphysical Musical" by Eric Jorgenjorgenson and Sarah Fay Goldman as part of their Columbia University senior thesis.
Influenced by a variety of musical styles including Motown, jazz, soul, gospel, and R&B, Sami continues to record music, and hopes to break into the recording industry. His favorite artists include Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Ray Charles, BB King, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Cole Porter, and Otis Redding.