Mount Madonna School invites you to its high school production of Fiddler on the Roof , January 25-27 at the Hawks’ Nest Theater. Evening performances are planned for Friday and Saturday, January 25 and 26 at 7:00pm; and a matinee show on Sunday, January 27 at 2:00pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students under 18; all seats are reserved. To purchase tickets, call (408) 847-2717.
Set in the small Russian village of Anatevka, Fiddler tells the story of Tevye, a poor dairyman, as he tries to instill in his five daughters the traditions of his tight-knit Jewish community in the face of a changing society and growing anti-Semitism. Rich in historical and ethnic detail, Fiddler on the Roof continues to touch audiences around the world with its humor, warmth and honesty.
“In the musical theatre pantheon, there are few musicals as well crafted as Fiddler on the Roof ,” comments MMS performing arts director Sampad Martin Kachuck. “From the range of lyrical songs and varieties of dance, to the depth of the script, the play serves as a shining example of theatrical excellence. Of course, those high standards and the audience familiarity with the play create pressure to honor the work. Therefore, it is not a play selected lightly. To do it justice takes huge commitment and willingness from all involved.
“As a group, we don’t see this necessarily as only a ‘Jewish Play,’ although it is certainly about Jews in turn of the century Russia. Nor is it simply a primer in Russian history, although it wonderfully captures the political and societal changes occurring during that historical time period. More than anything, Fiddler is an experience of the heart, of love for family and traditions, and the realistic conflicts that arise within both when change and dire circumstance presents themselves.
“As Tevye, struggles with maintaining some type of balance between his religious faith and his devotion to family, and between what he knows and what he must now accept, not only do the characters surrounding him onstage also share similar struggles, but we in the audience find connection as well,” says Kachuck.
“High school students know about love of family and the challenges of establishing independence from their parents, about honoring existing and external wishes and methods, while still wanting freedom to chart their own life course. Whether they’ve been in relationship with another or not, students also understand how love can trump most imposed limitations, how often those societal or familial barriers create an even deeper zeal for the partners to be together despite it all. This is the stuff of countless literature, movies and songs. These connecting points are what make Fiddler on the Roof so compelling for performers of all ages.
“I am thrilled to witness the students in this cast take on the challenges of the production with such commitment and openness,” Kachuck adds. “Whether we hit Broadway quality or not, and we will certainly strive for it, the process of this particular group of actors has been truly moving and expansive, not only theatrically, but also in heightening their own empathy and sense of humanity. As a directing team, we couldn’t be prouder of their engagement.”
#####
Contact: Leigh Ann Clifton, Media and Public Relations,
Nestled among the redwoods on 355 mountaintop acres, Mount Madonna is a safe and nurturing college-preparatory school that supports students in becoming caring, self-aware and articulate critical thinkers, who are prepared to meet challenges with perseverance, creativity and integrity. The CAIS and WASC accredited program emphasizes academic excellence, creative self-expression and positive character development. Located on Summit Road between Gilroy and Watsonville.
