Fascination of Fiddler on the Roof
by Cameron Jones
Why is “Fiddler on the Roof” such a popular musical? Why did College Park choose “Fiddler on the Roof” over so many other options to perform this year? Why should you go see this production? Many questions hang unanswered in the presence of plays. Similar to books, plays allow audiences an escape into a whole new world of imagination. This show, like many, leaves audiences hungry for more. When we connect to a story and are intrigued by the plot twists, it becomes hard to tear our eyes and ears from the storyteller. All are encouraged to become connected to and intrigued by College Park’s Production of “Fiddler on the Roof”.
“Fiddler on the Roof” was primarily written to stress the importance of accepting one another. The storyline follows a milkman in a rural Ukrainian village whose name is Tevye and his family. Tevye has a wife and five daughters that he and his wife are determined to marry rich so that they will not live in poverty. However, the eldest three daughters each indulge in secret romances that are sure to upset their parents. The family are Russian Jews, and their living conditions are growingly becoming less and less stable in the year 1905 during the Russian Revolution. The daughters must face trials and tribulations in order to earn their father’s acceptance as well as live a happy life. Will they eventually be happy with money? Will they only ever long for a happy life with the men they truly love? In this family lies mystery, deception, and heartache. It explores loved one’s reactions to such things that can happen to any family at any time. Unexpected Pregnancy. Elopement. Theft. These are just a few of the dramatic plot twists throughout “Fiddler on the Roof” that have audience members on the edge of their seats. This story connects with audiences by making each person wonder what they would do in those situations. Although it is set in a different time period and possesses some obscure characters, “Fiddler on the Roof” does an amazing job at forcing the audience to really associate with the characters as well as the plot.
All College Park Cavaliers and citizens of The Woodlands are encouraged and welcomed to come watch College Park’s Production of “Fiddler on the Roof” because it will be an exciting play of anticipation and fun. Even with intense dramatic elements, this story contains many moments of comedic relief. There are eighteen musical numbers that will trigger and play with your emotions giving your heart times of intense excitement as well as intense devastation. This show combines aspects of music, dance, and acting to tell the emotional rollercoaster story of a secret-filled family. Who will the daughters marry? How will their parents feel? You may only gain the answers to these questions by coming and seeing the action-packed scenes play out before your eyes. Come see “Fiddler on the Roof” to enjoy a night in a whole other world.
