Tickets are going fast for Trinity Western University’s production of Fiddler on the Roof, playing March 13 to 31 at TWU’s School of the Arts, Media and Culture.
This festive co-production by the Music and Theatre departments will ring in the university’s 50th year with a cast of 22 performers, accompanied by SAMC’s popular Klezmer Ensemble.
The timeless story takes place in pre-revolutionary Russia, where a small community of Jewish villagers cope with their uncertain future by clinging to the ideals of their past.
“How do we keep our balance? Tradition!” sings Tevye, who expects his beautiful daughters to marry whomever the matchmaker chooses for them. But Tevye’s daughters belong to a new world. They’d rather marry for love than consult a matchmaker … or a father. In this story of faith and family, Tevye discovers which traditions are most precious; and which ones might just be changing for the better.
“What’s important in the end is not so much tradition itself but the truths behind it,” says Mountain Secondary grad Vincent Clements, “like living a life devoted to God and loving your family and neighbours.”
Donning his best Klezmer attire, Clements is proud to be the foundation of the Fiddler on the Roof band’s sound, playing acoustic bass guitar and contra-alto clarinet (the “big brother of the clarinet family,” as he likes to say).
“I think people would be surprised by what a seven-piece band can do,” he said.
“Many of us can play several different instruments, so the variety is sure to keep the audience on their toes. We’ll also be mingling with the cast onstage for portions of the show.
“I’m looking forward to those cool interactions with characters.”
TWU students first performed the show for the school’s 25th anniversary in 1987.
The musical returns this spring for the 50th, kicking off 35 days of arts events at the third annual Festival of the Arts, Media and Culture. The show is directed by Aaron Caleb with musical direction by Allan Thorpe, vocal coaching by Caroline Harder, and choreography by Andrea Loewen.
Playing March 13 – 31 at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday with Saturday matinees only. Special pricing on the first Tuesday. For tickets and information, visit www.twu.ca/theatre or email theatre@twu.ca.
Explore the Festival of the Arts, Media and Culture at www.twu.ca/samc.