‘Fiddler on the Roof’ tells the tale of a Jewish community in the early 1900’s. The town is filled with tradition, pride and love of faith. It is also permeated with antisemitism and persecution. While the story is fiction, it mirrors the history of the time and events happening today around the world.
Ari Axelrod stars as Tevye and he says this production holds a special place in his heart. His Jewish ancestors immigrated from Russia.
“I think that the reason that we are still here is because we recognize things are bad, but we don’t forget a reason to celebrate. And there’s a line in ‘Fiddler,’ it’s hidden in ‘To Life.’ God would like us to be joyful, even as our hearts lie panting on the floor.” Axelrod says, “And to me, doing ‘Fiddler at this time in the world and in my life is the epitome of finding a reason to tell a joyful story even when my heart is lying panting on the floor.”
The musical is brought to life in part by Colby Lindeman who was tapped by The Lex to choreograph the production. Lindeman says the show is a story for the ages and is timeless and classic for a reason.
“The story that we’re telling can be applied to any group of people at any period of time that have been through the same thing. And so, it’s relatable no matter who you are. Whether you are Jewish or not you can relate to these people and this family and to this story of progression vs tradition. It’s just a beautiful heartwarming story.” Lindeman adds, It will make you laugh. It will make you cry and everything in between.”
Fiddler on the Roof runs through this Sunday at the Lexington Opera House. For show times and ticket information log on to www.lexingtontheatrecompany.org
