Highlights from the Spring Play: Fiddler on the Roof

The Woodcrest Christian School Drama Department performed an outstanding rendition of Fiddler on the Roof in March. Performing for more than 1,600 people in seven shows, the story of Tevye and the little village of Anatevka was brought to life through incredible student talent, costumes and set design.

With a cast of 68 students, this year’s production marked the largest cast in school history. Sophomore Garrett Haun blew audiences away in his very convincing portrayal of Tevye, the poor milkman and father of five daughters. It was his first major role in a WCS production. Outstanding solos and duets from seniors Sienna Edwardson, Allison Holliday, Micah Stolfus, Samuel Albanese, Brandon Llausas, and Cassidy Retzer also commanded attention onstage.

“He loves her. Love, it’s a new style. On the other hand, our old ways were once new, weren’t they? On the other hand, they decided without parents, without the matchmaker. On the other hand, did Adam and Eve have a matchmaker? Oh, yes they did. And it seems these two have the same Matchmaker.” ~Tevye

Eighteen elementary students (grades 2-6) added to the extraordinary scenes of villagers young and old dancing to the familiar Fiddler musical scores about family and tradition. This year’s play also marked a bittersweet moment for 13 seniors as their last school production (for many of whom was their 10th play with the Drama Department).

Each year for the play, the Royals Pavilion transforms from gym to theater. This year improvements included a new lighting truss that allowed lights to be dropped from the ceiling creating a more theatrical experience and wider viewing angles for audience seating. The lights and stage design added dramatic flair to the production, along with many other special effects.

“I know, I know. We are Your chosen people. But, once in a while, can’t You choose someone else?” ~Tevye

It was quite a sight to behold seeing sophomore Ashley Habchi playing the fiddle live from a village rooftop on stage. Her melodious playing entranced audiences as she appeared perched on the edge of the sharp roofline.  The custom built set for Anatevka village included a specially-designed rooftop seat, complete with harness and safety features, for the illusion of a precarious rooftop fiddler. Other special effects created a towering nine-foot tall Fruma-Sarah, played by freshman Audrey Kell, performing high above everyone in a captivating graveyard scene.

Putting in hours of preparation and practice, the students and staff in our Drama Department did an outstanding job! Each year excitement builds as the Spring Play approaches, and we look forward to what next year holds! Stay tuned!