The Putnam Players of Putnam County High School (PCHS) presented the musical play Fiddler on the Roof in shows Nov.1, 2, and 4 at the PCHS Black Box Theatre, just days after student actors David Trice and Nevaeh Marshall were named Region All-Star Cast members for their performances during the Region One-Act Competition the previous Saturday in Augusta.
Fiddler on the Roof takes place in 1905 Russia in a small Jewish village. It focuses on one Jewish family and the traditions they follow.
The play’s namesake, the Fiddler on the Roof, represents the uncertainty and precariousness of these people’s lives. The play is both serious and comedic at times, as it spans months in the family’s life as outside forces change their little village. It ends with the family and other villagers being forced to move away, with Tevye motioning for the fiddler to follow him out.
PCHS Theatre Director Anna Walker said that the kids fell in love with the music from Fiddler.
“It’s a really great story
because it is timeless,” she said. Fiddler on the Roof touches on some challenging topics as the family and other villagers are discriminated against and even made to move away. “This gives you a platform and safe space to be exposed to those difficult topics,” Walker said.
Walker participated in theater in her high school days and was later driven to pursue teaching because she “wanted to be for other students the theater teacher that I always needed.”
She added, “I’m a fierce supporter and advocate of arts in education.”
The PCHS Fiddler production began with auditions the first week of school, with about 30 students involved in both on- and off-stage roles.
The play was performed at the One-Act competition, where the entire set was brought along with the cast. The show used minimal props, just walls and some simple furniture, which was very effective for the “timeless” appeal of the play.
“The bulk of our support comes from our administration and our parents,” Walker said. “Both our school-level administration and our board are incredible. We couldn’t do it without them.”
Music Director Amanda Stover, now in her 10th year teaching at PCHS, said she loves working with the students.
“They are so special, kind, and encouraging. I also love that musical theater is so supported by the school and by the board,” Stover said.
She also described her passion for helping students branch out, pointing out that they may begin with musical theater before going into classes like chorus and piano, which Stover teaches. Walker and Stover both said they are proud of their students’ hard work.
Fiddler on the Roof at PCHS enjoyed a great turnout for all performances and was well received, but the school’s theater department has already turned its focus toward upcoming events, including Putnam County Middle School’s presentation of “Elf Jr.” Nov. 30 to Dec. 2 at The Plaza Arts Center. Additionally, the PCHS Putnam Players are looking forward to presenting In the Heights this spring.