Sometimes the talent at Edina High School blows me away. This fall’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof” was no exception. I was blown ah-way. I got goose bumps several times. Once because I was cold, but all the other times were because of the harmonies and the magical voices of the thespians.
Opening night was more than a success. Everyone was on pitch, knew their lines, and with the exception of a few minor mic/tech glitches, the show went on without a hitch. I absolutely loved how Fiddler opened with a full cast song and dance, because you could definitely feel the energy and excitement from the actors. I also felt like it was the ideal combination of the theater regulars and new faces that I’d never seen on stage before.
Even though the musical lasted about three hours, intermission seemed like the longest part. With all the love, drama, singing, and humor, the alternate, tragic world you’re transported into makes you want to stay even longer. And if you think about it, for a $6 ticket you’re only spending $2 an hour.
Basically everyone that was in the show just rocked it and seemed like they were having a blast, even the set crew. PS: Shout out to the pit orchestra, because you guys were excellent. The whole production truly was enjoyable to watch.

Highlights:
1. All of the dancing (seriously loved that)
2. Ben Scott holding a beautiful note for an insanely long time
3. Fake beards
4. Funny Jewish grandmas (played amazingly well by Marena Wallschlaeger and Julia Brooks)
5. The sets and costumes
6. Old school/alternate version of “Rich Girl” by Gwen Stefani entitled “Rich Man”
7. “The Dream” scene

If you need a good laugh, watch this musical. There were so many moments that the guy behind me and I were cracking up because of all the quality lines within the script. If you need a good cry, watch this musical. After the show, I saw several people who were still misty eyed or had full on tears on their faces. So the moral of the story is, no matter what mood you’re in, go watch the musical.
Lastly, it just needs to be said that Zach Farhat was the perfect Tevye. Holy bananas. Anyone who goes and sees the show would agree with me in a heartbeat.