KOCHI: ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ has been one of the most successful musicals since its original production in 1964. It is based on the short story, ‘Tevye and His Daughters’ by Sholom Aleichem. It is a mix of melodious tunes and peppy dialogues.
The story, set in Russia in 1905, centres on Tevye, the father of five daughters, and his effort to keep his family and the Jewish religious traditions together, even though outside influences are coming in. Tevye has to cope with the strong-willed actions of his three older daughters, and with the Tsar’s decision to evict the Jews from the village.
Incidentally, the 1971 film adaption starring Chaim Topol went on to win several awards including three Academy Awards.
Directed by the Bangalore-based Leila Alvares, the founder-president of the Cause Foundation, the musical will be staged at JT Pac, Kochi on September 21, at 7 p.m.
The foundation has a cast and crew of 35 members include Bangalore’s finest singers, actors and dancers. Besides old favorites like Prem Koshy, Arvind Kasthuri and Priya Mendens, there are youngsters like Alisha D’Souza, Rahael Mathews and others, supported by musicians like Carol Britto, Keanu, Ashish Paul and Vivek Menzel.
“The cast includes medical and advertising professionals, lawyers, and students, all of who have a common passion - theatre,” says Leila.
Arvind Kasturi, a doctor and professor at St John’s Medical College, plays the lead role of Tevye, while singer Priya Mendes dons the role of Tevye’s wife, Golde. Popular restaurateur Prem Koshy plays Lazar Wolf, while Tuffy, actor and news presenter, steps into the role of Yente, the matchmaker.
Earlier, Leila has staged musicals like ‘Grease’, ‘My Fair Lady’, ‘Hello Dolly’, ‘Sound of Music’, ‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’, and ‘All Shook Up’, all of which have been a success. This foundation promotes local talent by providing them with a platform and support to the underprivileged by donating surplus funds to struggling charities. The duration of the play is two hours, with an interval of 10 minutes. For more details and reservations contact : 8086881681 / 9349528057 / www.jtpac.org