This past weekend marked the final performances of Fiddler on the Roof at Slightly Off Broadway Theatre. This timeless musical, set in a Russian Jewish village around 1905, chronicles the life of Tevye, a humble milkman (portrayed by Justin O’Dell), and his family. Tevye’s wife, Golde (played by Samantha Barrett), and their three daughters (played by Skyla Booth, Kelsey Coleman, and Sloane Black) are at the heart of the story, navigating the challenges of tradition in a rapidly changing world.
In early 20th century Russia, arranged marriages were customary, and Tevye faces a dilemma when he discovers that his daughters have forged their own romantic connections. As a man deeply rooted in tradition, Tevye grapples with balancing his longstanding beliefs with the desires of his daughters. Throughout the play, Tevye’s principles are tested, and love ultimately prevails as he learns to honor his daughters’ wishes.
Photos by Donna Rank
The production also sheds light on the historical treatment of Jewish communities during this era, culminating in a poignant moment when Tevye and his fellow villagers are forced to leave their homes under threat. Fiddler on the Roof beautifully captures the tension between the safety of tradition and the uncertainties that arise when those traditions are challenged.
Cast
Teyve, the Milkman – Justin O’Dell
Golde, Tevye’s wife – Samantha Barrett
Tzeitel, 1st Daughter – Skyla Booth
Hodel, 2nd Daughter – Kelsey Coleman
Chava, 3rd Daughter – Sloane Black
Shprintze, 4th Daughter – MaKenna Shewell
Bielke, 5th Daughter – Maella Carter
Motel, the Tailor – Grayden Crawford
Perchik, the Student – Cole Dickey
Fyedka, Russian soldier – Aidan McGaugh
Yente, the Matchmaker – Katherine Shewell
Grandma Tzeitel – Andi Schiller
Fruma-Sarah – Kelsey Coleman
Lazar Wolf, the Butcher – David Shewell
Mendel, Rabbi’s son – William Watson
Mordcha, the Innkeeper – Shaun Shewell
Avram, the Bookseller – Tim Schmidt
Constable – Darren Hicks
Rabbi – Kent Powell
Sasha, Russian soldier – Keegan Shewell
Fiddler – Lexen O’Dell
Yussell, the Hat seller – Bobby Donovan
Ensemble – Theresa Carter, Eilish O’Dell, Brittany Carpenter, Sharon Hamilton, Andi Schiller
Production Crew
Director – Tanya Duncan
Choreographer – Samantha Barrett
Vocal Director – David Shewell
Set Design – Charley Donnici
Scenic Artist – Clary Rhyne
Technical Director – Devin Lambeth
Lighting Design – Tara Watsob
Resident Stage Manager – Sharon Hamilton
Assistant Stage Manager – Brittany Carpenter
Sound Technicians – Dylan Carter, Mindy Rich, Samantha Shewell
Lighting Technician – Maggie Watson
Dialog Coach – Wayne Day
Set Crew – Charley Donnici (Crew Chief), Shaun Shewell, Gary Lemming, Tim Schmidt, Kent Powell, William Watson, Bobby Donovan, Brittany Carpenter
Set Painting – Sharon Hamilton, Brittany Carpenter, Kate Shewell, Theresa Carter, Maella Carter, Kent Powell, Elijah Cline
Props/Set Dressing – Sharon Hamilton
Costumes – Tayna Duncan
Resident House Manager – Kristi Shewell
Headshots, Poster, and Program Design – Kristi Shewell
Concessions – Ernie Snyder and Rachel Dell
Theatre Maintenance – Shaun Shewell
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