Fiddler on the Roof: A musical masterpiece

Fiddler on the Roof was a HUGE success!  Congratulations to all who spent many weeks and sleepless nights creating a wonderful production! Ticketed performances were Friday – Sunday, March 1-3 with a pay-what-you-will dress rehearsal on Thursday, February 29. Each performance was in front of a packed house of friends, family, and community members.

Fiddler on the Roof is a timeless musical masterpiece set in the fictional Russian village of Anatevka. Mac Rhodes-Lehman, a senior at EMHS, took on the role of Tevye. Telling the story of tradition and change within Tevye’s family. Other noteworthy performances include Lilianna Stoltzfus who displayed her talent as the fiddler throughout the musical. Sophie Hendricks ‘24, who played Tevye’s wife. Eleanor Yoder ’24, Eleanor Albers ‘25, Erin Loker ‘24, Annabelle Lehembre ‘28, and Chloe Thornton ‘27 as they portrayed Tevye’s 5 daughters. It was pure joy watching Carson Cale ’24 fully embody her role as Yente, the matchmaker. The performance was enhanced by the accompaniment of student and professional musicians, who filled the wings of the stage. Over 60 students from elementary through high school performed, creating a memorable experience for all.

“I LOVED this performance of Fiddler on the Roof at EMS.  I watched it tonight with my mom; I laughed, smiled, and cried…it is such a touching, sad, funny and wonderfully-written musical.  The EMS students were fantastic, and especially “Tevye” – just so, so good!  Congrats to EVERYONE involved in such a great performance!” 

Jenny Whiting, was in attendance at Saturday’s performance.

Before Sunday’s performance, Rabbi Jeffrey Kurtz-Lendner discussed the cultural and historical context of “Fiddler on the Roof,” providing insights into the Jewish traditions and experiences depicted in the musical. He shared the impact of the show on Jewish identity and its relevance in today’s society. He also spent time with the cast and others involved, sharing these topics so the students would better understand the history behind the characters they were portraying. We appreciate his time and support.

Read how EMS Explores Tradition With ‘Fiddler’ By ASHLYN CAMPBELL published by the Daily News-Record on Mar 2, 2024.

If you were not able to come to the performance and were looking forward to attending a theater production you’re in luck. EMS Middle School Theater will present Twelfth Night on May 10-11. This must-see comedy by William Shakespeare is centered around themes of love, mistaken identity, and the folly of ambition.