A Message from the Director:
Every show that I select serves a far greater purpose than just entertainment. I do my best to choose shows that will either expose my students to new theatre skills or introduce them to shows that feature otherworldly perspectives that will invigorate each student to reflect. For Treasure Island (2016), the goal was to provide students with the opportunity of working with a fight choreographer. The goal for Into the Woods (2015) was to get students to think about how their actions impact others around them.
For Fiddler, there were multiple reasons for doing this show. First, the show features vibrant characters with great physical delivery. The goal was to get students comfortable with making authentic physical choices that differ from their own. Next, the show is filled with rich history; which opened a door for discussions on what it was like to be part of the Jewish community during the dawn of the Russian Revolution. Last, I wanted my students to reflect on how faith, family, and tradition shape the world of the play as well as how those three facets influence their own lives and community.
It isn't easy to put on a show that is jam-packed with serious and humorous content. I am appreciative that I have a mature group of talented and hardworking students that pour all of their energy into the show. I am always amazed at what our young artists can accomplish, and I must thank the student leadership for keeping rehearsals efficient and positive.
I would also like to thank the drama staff and parent volunteers who graciously donated countless hours in helping bring this story to life. I am a firm believer in collaboration, and I love sharing ideas with my team. The creative visions from all areas (costumes, music, choreography, set design, and business relations) sewed together beautifully, and I am honored to work with such gifted individuals.
I hope you enjoy our production of Fiddler on the Roof! Thank you so much for supporting the Goochland Drama Department!
Mazeltov!
Neil Burch
Artistic Director
