Musician Clayton Sheehan gets nostalgic as he croons If I were a Rich Man as he watches a group of more than 50 artistes rehearsing the musical Fiddler on the Roof . “I was a little boy when I watched the film. Now it’s a wonderful experience to watch these enthusiastic children perform the story,” he shares. It is a big day for the group of students of Green Gables International School who will present the Fiddler on the Roof on December 11. With eye-catching sets, props and costumes, the musical complete with songs and dances, promises to be a visual treat. The production incorporates seven songs. “I like the song If I were a Rich Man as it talks about honesty and dreams.”
While Clayton is the director, Mitchell Sheehan is the assistant director and co-ordinator. Choreography is by Amrita Kinjani. “The art team led by Paul has done a great job with the backdrop; Anil has taken care of sound and lights,” shares Clayton, adding, “Unlike a musical theatre performed in a small room sans props and backdrop, this is a real thing complete with sets, props, sound, and the lights.”
Set in Annatevyeka in Russia, Fiddler on the Roof tells the story of Tevye, a simple milk man with five daughters of marriageable age. “A contrast is drawn between Tevye’s lifestyle and the fiddler on the roof. Their lives are as precarious as that of the fiddler who sits on the roof and plays his fiddle. Tevvy, the main character wonders how the fiddler manages to balance himself on the roof without falling down or breaking his neck.”
Heart-warming story
One of the oldest musicals, Fiddler on the Roof tugs heartstrings with its heart-warming story. “Tevye’s family is from a poor background and move ahead in life with their hard work, honesty and sincerity. His daughters find their life partners and improve the standard of their living. Three daughters move to the US and the old couple Tevye and his wife also follow them.”
The team has been rehearsing for four months now. “Ninety five per cent of the students in the group are Telugu speakers and the way they have worked hard and approached the play is amazing,” he states. With long rehearsals, the students have been literally living their roles. The students found a connect with the story and its theme. The theme is relevant in the modern times, shares Clayton.“The story tells us to be proud of what we do and also enjoy it.”
