Freedom Area High School's Student Newspaper

FHS Press

Freedom Area High School's Student Newspaper

FHS Press

Freedom Area High School's Student Newspaper

FHS Press

Fiddler on the Roof: different time period, same ideas

The year 2013 is one known for change. Whether it be a national change, as with the presidential re-election, or a local one, as with new administration, variances are abundant in today’s world. Though it may seem like the biggest changes are happening in the here and now, the musical “Fiddler on the Roof,” set in 1905, examines the progression from old-age Jewish traditional values into more current mindsets . After performing modern-day classics, such as “Footloose”, the Freedom Area Drama Club does an about-face by choosing a more conventional performance piece. Though the musical may be set in early 20th-century Russia, the themes are still applicable to today’s youth. A Jewish couple, played by Zack Malinak and Hunter Bonzo, latches to their orthodox values when it comes to raising five daughters. Each daughter must decide to dictate her own path or continue to grow as a young, traditional woman in the Jewish culture. “[Fiddler] might not be a 21st century storyline, but if you peel back the layers, you’ll find out the struggles are really all the same thing — racism, poverty, family tension, inter-racial marriage, relationships,” Mr. Keith Kovalic, producer of the musical, said. According to Kovalic, the musical is “a traditional favorite… because it’s a show people come to see..” Though students may have fun seeing the performance, the cast and crew claim being involved is even more enjoyable than seeing the production. This show is really fun to do, and it’s been great to put on… [Fiddler on the Roof] just has some comedy parts, it has some serious parts, and it’s just really interesting,” Junior Luke Hutchison said. As the dates for the musical draws nearer, rehearsals continue to increase in number and intensity. For an ensemble member or dancer, there are approximately four practices each week, ranging from two to four hours apiece. Though members put in a great deal of time, the sacrifice is truly worth it when the curtain closes each night of the production. “When we see the faces of the crowd after we put on the show, it’s just worth it,” Freshman R.J.Schlegel said. Tickets will be on sale March 1, selling for $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors.