The Timeless Tale of Love, Faith, and Modernity: Fiddler on the Roof at the Geyer Performing Arts Center
The Geyer Performing Arts Center in Scottdale is set to bring a timeless tale of love, faith, and modernity to the stage with its production of “Fiddler on the Roof.” Running from today through Sunday, this classic musical delves into the complexities that arise when tradition clashes with the desire for change.
Set in a quaint Russian village in the early 20th century, the story follows Tevye, a poor milkman, as he grapples with deeply held religious traditions such as arranged marriage within the context of his own family. When his daughters express a desire to marry for love rather than tradition, Tevye is faced with the challenge of reconciling his age-old beliefs with the changing world around him. As if familial struggles weren’t enough, the community faces external threats of antisemitism, pushing the family to make difficult decisions about their future.
Director Jill Jassmann-Sharlock has long dreamed of bringing “Fiddler on the Roof” to the Geyer Performing Arts Center stage. “It is one of my favorites, and I am thrilled that the Geyer board approved my proposal to direct this production for the 2024 season,” she shared, highlighting the timeless relevance of the show’s themes.
One of the lead actors, Randy Olivia, who has been performing since his early teens and studied acting in New York City, expressed his deep connection to the role of Tevye. Having only played the role once before in his 30-year acting career, Olivia credits Israeli actor Chaim Topol for inspiring his love for the show. “I fell in love with the play when I saw Topol’s portrayal on Broadway and in the film. The character of Tevye is complex, balancing a deep love for his family with the uncertainties of life,” Olivia explained, referencing the iconic line, “A fiddler on the roof sounds crazy, no?” as a metaphor for life’s unpredictability.
Jassmann-Sharlock’s vision for the production was heavily influenced by Topol’s portrayal of Tevye. “I wanted to stay true to the traditional roots of the show, as I have always admired Topol’s interpretation of the character,” she noted. The director emphasized the exceptional talent and dedication of the cast, particularly praising the ensemble known as the ‘Fab Fiddlers’ for their musical prowess and unity in performance.
Olivia echoed Jassmann-Sharlock’s sentiments about the musicality of the production, noting that audiences are often drawn to sing along with the classic songs. His personal favorite, “If I Were a Rich Man,” holds a special place in his heart, while Jassmann-Sharlock highlighted the chemistry between Tevye and Golde, his wife, as a standout aspect of the show.
As patrons leave the theater, Olivia believes they will walk away with a deeper appreciation for the themes of familial love and following one’s heart that resonate throughout the production. Jassmann-Sharlock hopes that audience members will also gain insight into the historical context of Jewish life in Russia during the early 1900s, emphasizing the hardships faced by the community during that time.
With its powerful portrayal of universal themes such as family dynamics, cultural change, and the resilience of the human spirit, “Fiddler on the Roof” promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend. To purchase tickets and find more information about showtimes, visit the Geyer Performing Arts Center website at https://geyerpac.com/.