Magic Johnson May Steer Soul Train to Broadway

A stage version of the iconic TV dance series Soul Train may be headed to Broadway, according to EW.com. Soul Train Holdings LLC, owned by NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, have been trying to resurrect the TV franchise since purchasing the Soul Train library last year, even spurring discussions with writers to take Soul Train to the Great White Way.

“I think that dance, fashion and music, the best of music, are really the tent poles for Soul Train going forward,” CEO Kenard Gibbs said. “I believe those things are enduring just as the ideas and ideals of love, peace and soul are enduring.”

Soul Train is an American musical variety show which debuted in 1971. Featuring performances by R&B, soul and hip-hop artists, the TV series ran for 35 years. The longtime host of the American institution Don Cornelius died on February 1 at the age of 75. Johnson is no stranger to Broadway as Magic/Bird, a play about his longtime competition with close friend Larry Bird, will begin performances March 21 at the Longacre Theatre.