Fiddler on the Roof is set in the small Jewish village of Anatevka, Russia in 1905. The story is concerned primarily with the efforts of Tevye, a dairyman, his wife, Golde, and their seven daughters to cope with a harsh existence under Tsarist rule. During the Prologue, Tevye explains the role of God's law in providing balance in the lives of the villagers. As the play opens, Tevye's family prepares for the Sabbath while Yente, the Matchmaker, brings the news that she has found a match for Tzeitel. This match is with Lazar Wolf, the butcher. However, Tzeitel has her cap set for Motel, the village tailor. The other daughters wonder if Yente will soon find each of them a match. Tevye reflects on his dream of riches and the family and villagers observe the Sabbath. Soon thereafter, Tevye, under duress, agrees to meet with Lazar Wolf. They strike a deal and there is much celebration. The next character we meet is Perchik, a student from Kiev (a radical) who has his eye on Hodel. Tevye agrees to their union. Now there is much gossiping in the street about Tzeitel and Motel's wedding plans as the proposed match with Lazar is scuttled.  Now, we are introduced to Fyedka, a young Russian, who strikes up a friendship with Chava based on a mutual love of reading. Meanwhile Motel and Tzeitel are married, but the celebration is marred by a pogrom ordered by the local constabulary staged to satisfy the desires of the Tzar. Perchik and Hodel's romance builds and they seek Tevye's blessing. They are successful and Hodel agrees to meet Perchik in Siberia where he has been arrested for participating in demonstrations against the Tzar. However, the liason between Chava and Fyedka is never acknowledged by Tevye. Soon, the Constable brings news that everyone must leave Anatevka; the villagers must disperse. These are direct orders from the Tzar. Sadly, all say good-byes and the Fiddler is left to once again remind us of the precarious lives of the Jewish populace of Tzarist early 20th Century Russia.
Cookie Angstadt

Performance Schedule

Friday, April 25, 7:00 PM *SOLD OUT*
Saturday, April 26, 2:00 PM
Sunday, April 27, 2:00 PM