The Broadway classic “Fiddler on the Roof” will be performed at Colorado Mesa University (CMU) in the Robinson Theatre at the Moss Performing Arts Center from Feb. 27 to March 7. The iconic music follows the story of a Jewish father named Tevye who runs a traditional Jewish household and needs to learn to find a balance between his traditions versus what he feels is morally just.
CMU junior Shawna Seals, who is an ensemble member and an understudy in the show, said that stories such as “Fiddler on the Roof” tend to reflect the way a society is shaped, and that this production is important when paralleled to the current political climate.
“Fiddler is really important to the time that we’re living in right now. It deals with a lot of immigration issues and understanding people who are different from you, and how their homes are being destroyed. And I think that it’s a cool parallel to come see this and see what’s happening because it is happening in other parts of our world today,” Seals said.
Photo courtesy of Brie Angel
Fiddler on the Roof is a classic that transcends race and religion. Broadway productions and musicals have a long history of reflecting society when we need it most. However, musicals are also well beloved for having complex characters and high energy musical numbers.
“Musicals in particular, are always very high energy. There are going to be lots of song and dance numbers, and lots of Russian dancing,” CMU freshman Margaret Brophey said. Brophey is playing the role of Chava in the musical.
Brophey discussed how she admired the bravery of her character Chava. One of Brophey’s favorite parts of the show is when her character gets to sing “Matchmaker” with Tzeitel and Hodel. Brophey also found Tevye’s character arc very interesting.
“Having his three daughters who are pulling so much out of him and asking so much as him that I think it’s really fascinating to watch how much he can take, and how much he will bend his beliefs, for the people that he loves,” Brophey said.
According to Seals, Fiddler on the Roof looks like it will be an amazing production with elements of drama, comedy, music and great dance numbers.
“I think there’s something in there for everyone,” Seals said.
“Fiddler on the Roof” opens Feb. 27 and runs through Mar. 7. Tickets are free for CMU students and costs $22 for adults, $18 for seniors and $8 for children as well as non-CMU students. CMU’s website has more information for dates and times of performances.
