“Fiddler” Plays Without Missing a Beat

By Flo Mano with Wes Hessel

Music Theater Works opened a fantastic production of “Fiddler on the Roof”, which turned 60, and it is still so fresh and current; the set designed by Bob Knuth has an intricate weaving of wood planks. As the play starts, you are taken in by the perfectly unified singers – a feat in itself, with so many actors on stage, including young children; a credit to music director Eugene Dizon. Under the direction of Walter Stearns, the cast doesn’t miss a beat, and the choreography by Marla Lampert is incredible, the Cossack dancers superbly on point.

Sam Nachison (Tevye) is outstanding in his voice and commanding stature with his “Tradition” yet soft loving heart; Mitzi Smith as his other half Golde is powerful. The daughters, Madison Liphoff (Tzeitel), Elissa Newcorn (Hodel), and Madison Jaffe-Richter (Chana), as well as twin sisters Aubrey (Shprintze) & Adeline (Bielke) Rosenthal, are brilliant. Sara Stern (Yente) is funny and enthralling; Nathan Kabara (Motle), Jacob Simon (Perchik), and Jake Mickel (Fyedka) each remarkable in their respective roles.

The story about a Jewish community in the 1900’s, striving to make a living and surviving under watchful Russian political climate while being persecuted, is so current. A century later, the upheaval of wars/refugees from different countries/cultures/religions is universal. Food for thought – history repeating itself, reflected through the periscope of the arts. Always on the forefront of creating thought-provoking productions, MTW’s speak of humanity, diversity, acceptance, and love, done with humor and grace – great entertainment…

Everyone should see this magnificent performance and sing along, but the “Fiddler” will play his last notes August 17th, so please see www.musictheaterworks.com for tickets or more information.

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