Notes from the Director:
Ladies and Gentleman,
Thank you so much for joining us here at Abington Heights High School for our production of Fiddler on the Roof. For the past few months, the students involved in the show have been working tirelessly, memorizing lyrics, staging scenes, rehearsing vocals, practicing Russian accents and making props. If that isn't challenging enough during normal times, try doing all of that during a pandemic. However, the heart and dedication of all those involved were enough to overcome any obstacles or limitations. We proved that in spite of the circumstances surrounding us, we could put forth a musical that was both successful and safe for all those involved. You will notice some differences in our show compared to past shows. In place of elaborate set designs, we will be working with digital background projections and various prop designs to help set the mood of the scenes.
Fiddler on the Roof is a classic stage production. Its story contains both timeless and universal concepts. The story takes place in the 1905 Jewish village of Anatevka in Czarist Russia. Despite taking place over a hundred years ago, the themes of parent-child conflict, tradition versus change, persecution and government overreach are themes that are discussed to this day.
I've always considered a production of this caliber to be a team effort. Therefore, I would like to thank all the team members involved in our show before, during, and after the curtain opens. The exhausting rehearsals mean nothing if not for the efforts of the students and adults working behind the scenes. Our musicians, stage crew, props crew, lighting crew and sound crew are all an essential part of our team. We thank them for all their contributions to this performance. You helped make it happen.
Next, a heartfelt thank you goes out to all of the families involved in Fiddler on the Roof. All the rides, donations, schedule adjustments, and support did not go unnoticed. We are grateful to you for lending us your children for the past few months and allowing them to share their talents.
Also, on a personal note, I would like to thank all the actors and actresses involved in the show. I have taught and have known so many of you since 8th grade. It made me so proud to see how you all have grown, not just in terms of your talent, but the fine young men and women you have become. I was honored to be able to see and work with so many of you again. Your dedication and commitment is impressive, and you should all be happy with what you accomplished, especially during these times.
Finally, our sincerest appreciation goes out to the administration of Abington Heights High School and Middle School, as well as to the Board of Directors, Dr. Vitale and James Mirabelli for their support of the arts and allowing us to go forward with a performance. The memories and lessons the students have experienced during this process will last a lifetime.
Yours in the arts,
Michael Boylan, Director
Dana Boylan, Musical Director
Nick Lazor, Choreographer
Allison Covell, Producer
Ellen McGlynn, Technical Director
