‘Fiddler on the Roof’ musical at Ouachita Baptist University

ARKADELPHIA — Ouachita Baptist University’s School of Fine Arts will present the Broadway musical “Fiddler on the Roof,” based on Sholem Aleichem stories with book by Joseph Stein, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick and music by Jerry Bock.

The opening performance will be at 7:30 p.m. April 20 in Jones Performing Arts Center. Performances will continue April 21-22 at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee at 2:30 p.m. April 23.

“Fiddler on the Roof” follows the life of Tevye, a Jewish dairyman, and his wife, Golde, and their attempt to maintain their Jewish and cultural traditions as outside influences encroach upon their family’s lives.

“The musical is about a community being pulled in several different directions, whether by their traditions or following their heart,” said Kayla Walker, a senior musical theater major from North Little Rock, who plays Golde. “It’s a very moving story about real people and their lives.”

Set in the small Jewish village of Anatevka, Russia, in 1905 during a turbulent time of Tsarist rule, the story is told with wit and humor but remains a powerful statement about the evils of prejudice and persecution. Scott Holsclaw, professor of theater arts and stage director for the musical, said he found this to be a compelling message for a modern audience.

“My hope is that every man, woman and child who sees this production will leave with an understanding that, universally, all cultures want the same thing: security and love for their family and community,” Holsclaw said. “Everyone desires peace that allows them to worship and live in their own communities without persecution and prejudicial judgment.”

Scotty Scott, a junior musical theater major from Russellville, said he is excited to play the complex role of Tevye. “I’ve dreamt about playing this role for years now, and I’m so excited to perform it on the Ouachita stage,” he said. “The music and story blend beautifully, and the storyline remains relevant now, many years after ‘Fiddler’ was first performed in 1964. For musicals that old, that’s a testament for how well written this show is.”

A classic such as this requires many moving parts fit together well and many hours from dedicated faculty staff and students.

“The spring musical is always important because it is the largest production of the year. It is a total group effort between both divisions of the School of Fine Arts, faculty, staff and students,” said David Stanley, Ouachita instructor of music and the music director for “Fiddler.” “It involves a ton of people and resources, and it’s great to see students bring these works to life.”

In addition to Holsclaw and Stanley, other lead production team members include: Choreographer Stacy Hawking, OBU alumna; stage manager Nadalie Gill, a junior theater and mass communications major from Price, Texas, who will be assisted by Jordan Martinez, a sophomore theater and education major from Forney, Texas, and Stephen Vaughn, a junior music major from Hot Springs; co-dance captains Hannah Fender, a senior musical theater major from Maumelle, and Dylan Blackwood, a sophomore musical theater major from Walnut Ridge; and accompanists John Alec Briggs and Susan Monroe.

Tickets may be purchased for $12 at the OBU Box Office in Jones Performing Arts Center on weekdays from 1-5 p.m. or online at http://www.obu.edu/ boxoffice.

Call the box office during business hours at 870-245-5555 or email boxoffice@obu.edu for more information.