The Hebron Academy Players proudly presented Fiddler on the Roof at the Androscoggin Theater on Friday, February 23rd and Saturday, February 24th.

Set in a small corner of Russia in 1905, Fiddler on the Roof follows the tribulations of a Jewish family in the village of Anatevka. It was a tribute to the acting skills of Hebron Academy students that the cast could depict the religious and ethnic persecution in the musical so convincingly, as the actors, themselves, represented different faiths, several states, four countries, and three continents. The diversity found at Hebron is perhaps best manifested each year in the musical.

This year, for instance, the Russian ensemble included two Canadians (from Montreal and Ottawa), two Ukrainians (Kiev and Kharkiv), a Korean from Seoul and a Mainer from Turner. Beyond the international aspect, each member of the cast has his or her own interests. In addition to the students who have chosen after school drama as their full time activity, athletes are also encouraged to participate and therefore skiers, snowboarders, basketball players, swimmers, and ice hockey players also perform. Add the fact that the musical includes a number of faculty members: scheduling becomes an interesting challenge! Director Julie Middleton coordinated some creative rehearsal times (snow-day singing sessions and 15-minute break period practices); coaches and teaching faculty were very accommodating and supportive, and individuals remained committed, practicing in their limited free time.

This year’s performance was a stark contrast to last year’s colorful production of The Wiz. Sets were more realistic and challenging to create, and historical accuracy had to be considered by those involved with costuming and props. This year’s cast, moreover, included a record number of novice performers. These challenges were taken up eagerly by a cast and crew of fifty-six members of the Hebron Academy community. Special thanks were given to Julie Middleton, Director, Robin Worthley, Music Director, and Cynthia Reedy, Assistant Director, and to Paul Thibeault and Debbie Perkins, vocal trainers.