‘Must see’ musical Fiddler on the Roof performances this week

 

[May 08, 2019] 

LINCOLN 

On May 9th - 12th, Lincoln Community High School will be performing the musical Fiddler on the Roof.

The story takes place in the early 1900s and is told from the perspective of a married couple, Tevye and Golde and their five daughters, as they face conflicts trying to keep their faith and cultural traditions alive in a swiftly changing world.

Musical Director Kim Peterson-Quinn said, “Fiddler on the Roof is an American classic musical. It is the timeless story of families trying to negotiate changing customs while hanging on to important family traditions. At its core, it is also about love and what we are willing to accept for the sake of those closest to us. This show is full of memorable music that will keep you humming long after you have left the theater. The LCHS cast, orchestra and crew does not disappoint. It is a definite ‘must see.’”

As the cast said, “Tevye’s family, along with the colorful characters of their home village Anatevka, have traditions for everything. But when Tevye’s daughters begin to approach the idea of marriage, they begin to question these old ways of life.”

The show’s lead role, Tevye, is portrayed by Jack Graue. His wife Golde is portrayed by Makenna Frank, and they are supported by a talented ensemble.

Graue, a senior, has been in several productions over the past few years, and said Fiddler is a timeless classic because the story is about the struggle between old and new ways, which everyone struggles with, especially parents. Graue said many will relate to Tevye asking God, “Why do these things happen.” It is scary having to face what you don’t know, which is exactly what Tevye does.

Frank, a junior, is also a LCHS stage veteran, and says the songs are fun and the cast is great to work with and supportive of one another.

Playing their five daughters are seniors Kacey Bennett, Madeline Steiner and Aleaya Turley; junior Sarah Starasta and sophomore Grace Mathon, all of whom have been in other productions during their high school years.

Bennett plays the role of Chava, who marries a man her parents do not choose for her, causing a rift between her and the family. Bennett said she finds the time period, setting and characters fascinating and is excited to be a part of the cast.

Steiner plays Hodel and said she has heard the songs over the years and is excited to be part of a serious show with funny moments. Steiner said going against their traditions and marrying for love makes the story interesting.

Turley plays the role of Tzeitel and said Fiddler is timeless because of it being about tradition and family and bringing people together. Turley said the cast has become like family.

Starasta plays Bielke and likes the story, feeling it is important because so often groups have been hated and treated as lesser than others. She said the story helps highlight the lives of those in hardship. Starasta also has ancestors from that same area of Russia.

Mathon plays Shprintze and said it is a good story about family and community supporting one another in times of need.

In other supporting roles are seniors and stage veterans Laura Centers, Abigail Bishop and Austin Garriott.

Centers plays Yenta, the matchmaker and likes the story because it teaches everyone to take advantage of life and not take it for granted.

Bishop plays Fruma-Sarah who appears to Tevye in a dream. Bishop likes getting to scream and said she is not generally a loud person, so screaming is out of character for her.

Garriott plays Perchik, who marries Hodel and said the character of Perchik fits his voice and personality well.

Assisting Peterson-Quinn with the show are Mr. Tim Searby, Ms. Cari Wilmert, and Mr. Anthony Brummet.

As the cast practiced, their energy and enjoyment were evident. Some said it is hard work but worth it in the end.

Come see the talented cast perform May 9-12 in this must see Broadway classic that is full of both serious and funny moments.

Fiddler on the roof
LCHS Auditorium
May 9, 10 and 11 at 7 p.m.
May 12 at 2 p.m.

[Angela Reiners with photos by Mitch Douglas]