SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – Evangel University’s Theatre program proudly presents “Fiddler on the Roof,” a musical with book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock, and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. Showtimes are April 4-6, 12-13, and 16 at 7 p.m. and April 14 at 2 p.m. in Evangel’s Barnett Theater. The community is invited to attend.
Ticket prices are $22 for adults (19-59), $15 for senior citizens (60+) and students/children, and $10 for current EU students with valid I.D. Tickets may be purchased in advance at evangel.edu/boxoffice or at the on campus box office.
Production and performers
“Fiddler on the Roof” is a story of a Jewish community in the Russian village of Anatevka. The story focuses on Tevye, a milkman, his wife, Golde, and their five daughters as they face the upheaval of religious and cultural traditions and the constant encroachment of the tsar’s government into their community. Amidst these threats, Tevye and his neighbors struggle to maintain their Jewish heritage and home in Anatevka.
The original run of “Fiddler on the Roof” opened on Broadway in 1964 and was the first Broadway musical to have over 3,000 performances. The show won nine Tony Awards and held the title of longest-running Broadway musical for nearly 10 years before “Grease” surpassed it. The musical was adapted into a film in 1971 and has undergone numerous revivals.
“’Fiddler’ is timeless, and this production of it is no exception,” said Dr. Vickie Wisdom, professor of theatre at Evangel and the show’s director. “Beyond the political implications of today, “Fiddler” demonstrates what every generation wrestles with: long-standing traditions that are challenged, broken, or changed and religious persecution of a people’s belief. It’s a story of family, friendship, love, and fear.”
“Fiddler on the Roof” will be Wisdom’s final production before her retirement at the conclusion of the spring semester.
“This show is meaningful to me, not only because it is my last show before retirement, but because it was the musical that started my love of theatre 47 years ago,” she said. “I have loved my time at EU, especially these past eight years as director of our theater program. God gave me my dream job at the end of my 44-year career. I am so grateful.”
Students from any major may audition for a role in EU Theatre productions. The cast features the following EU students and recent graduates:
Tevye – Ben Paris
Golde – Heide Blackert
Tzeitel – Miriella Dilse
Hodel – Livie Ingamells
Chava – Jolie Smallwood
Shprintze – Trinity Brown
Bielke – Claire Lebeck
Yente – Lori Lawley
Motel – Isaac Walker
Perchik – Malachi Gorman
Fyedka – Lane Buckingham
Lazar Wolf – Christian Redding
Mordcha – Arlie Pennington
Rabbi – Jon Spence
Mendel – Boaz Muckelstone
Avram – Kale Bauer
Nachum – Corbin Moore
Grandma Tzeitel – Ash Jordan
Fruma Sarah – Christa Takitani
Constable – Pat Bogle
Shaindel – Emmy Stinson
Fiddler – Lisa Spence
“’Fiddler on the Roof’ is such a special show. Our hope is that the cast will bring a fresh perspective on this iconic production,” said Professor Lori Lawley, instructor of theatre at Evangel. “The play holds a warm spot in the hearts of so many, and we are honored to get to bring it to life on stage.”
The Theatre program at Evangel University is a vibrant offering through its Humanities Department.
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Evangel University, with its embedded Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), is a comprehensive Spirit-led Christian university located in Springfield, Missouri. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. Under the leadership of Dr. Mike Rakes, EU is committed to excellence in educating and equipping students to serve the Church and society globally and becoming compassionate innovators in their chosen vocations. EU offers more than 70 degree programs, including cutting-edge majors, pre-professional programs, and affordable and flexible online degree options.
EU is highly regarded and has been ranked:
- #1 Best College in Springfield & #2 Best Christian College in Missouri by Niche
- US News & World Report Best Colleges Top Performer in Social Mobility
- Colleges of Distinction Best Christian University
- Top 10 Best Universities by AcademicInfluence.com
- Third Most Beautiful Campus in the Midwest by Christian Colleges & Universities
- Top 10 Best Colleges in Missouri by BestColleges.com
With additional accreditations in business, counseling, music, social work, and theology and certification as an Excellence in Giving university, EU is focused on providing students with hands-on experience and real-world training for today’s professional careers. Learn more about the university at evangel.edu.