Notes from the Director
Winner of 9 TONY Awards when it debuted in 1964, Fiddler On The Roof is the brainchild of Broadway legends Jerome Robbins, Harold Prince, songwriters Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick, and book writer Joseph Stein. This the 50th anniversary, Shaker Theater is proud to present it to you.
Set in the little village of Anatevka, the story centers on Tevye, a poor dairyman, and his five daughters. With the help of a colorful and tight-knit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and instill them with traditional values in the face of changing social mores and the growing anti-Semitism of Czarist Russia. Rich in historical and ethnic detail, Fiddler On The Roof’s universal theme of tradition cuts across barriers of race, class, nationality and religion.
The love Tevye has for his family and the happiness of his daughters is a key element of this play for me. He has a unique way of seeing both sides of a situation and choosing his daughters’ happiness. He is pushed to the limit and even though he stands his ground against interfaith marriage, he shows his love for his daughter by acknowledging her in the end.
This is a story that can be played out in many cultures. The things that bind us together are our need for sustenance, our faith and the love of our families.
I have enjoyed directing this show with Karen Amedio and Peter Guba. I also appreciate the wonderful efforts of our Producer, Brittany Slingerland. Peter Suzuki is a talented carpenter and did a wonderful job of building the sets. The cast of Fiddler is one of extraordinary talent and have been a pleasure to work with. The High School music staff has been very accommodating and the custodial and office staff has been helpful as well. All these people have helped to maintain the tradition of Shaker Theater. Tradition. Without our traditions, our lives would be as shaky as … as a fiddler on the roof!
