Ambitious 'Fiddler' takes stage this weekend

One of the most ambitious theatrical productions ever attempted at Coudersport Area High School takes the stage Friday and Saturday nights. Tickets will be available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis for the Broadway classic, "Fiddler on the Roof," at the high school auditorium. Curtain time is 7 o'clock both nights.

Dozens of students are involved as actors or stage crew for the musical. A pit band comprised of students and adults from the community will perform under the direction of Brian Gresh.

Senior Brian Wetzel has the lead role as Tevye, a pious dairyman in the impoverished Jewish village of Anatevka in Czarist Russia during 1905. He hires a matchmaker to find husbands for his three oldest daughters, who have minds of their own.

Colorful costumes, lively dance routines, rich vocal harmonies and solos complement a script that mixes humor with social commentary. The show lasts for about two and one-half hours, with an intermission.

The high school student body was treated to a preview performance on Friday afternoon.