BWW Reviews: CM PAC's FIDDLER ON THE ROOF

Creative Ministries Performing Arts Centre's (CM PAC) production of Fiddler on the Roof is indeed a wonderful interpretation of the classic theatre staple. Running through March 16th, this incarnation of the multi Tony Award winning musical boasts a wonderfully talented cast who beautifully execute the Jerry Bock/Sheldon Harnick score.

Leading Danny Amy's cast at the Oakdale venue is Rich Panetta as Tevye. The story, set in 1905, is based on several tales from Sholem Aleichem. We follow Tevye as he attempts to keep his beloved Jewish traditions among his family. This proves to be a battle because his daughters and wife are strong willed women and society is changing. Gone are arranged marriages and the "I'm head of the household so what I say goes" mindset.

Mr. Panetta is a powerful Tevye yet makes you sympathize with him as he feels he's losing his family. First, Tevye arranges a marriage for his eldest daughter Tzeitel portrayed by Debbie Hecht. However, in a heart wrenching scene, she pleads with him to call off the agreement as she is in love with Motel, the tailor, portrayed by Jason Klein. Not long after this, Hodel, their second eldest daughter portrayed by Katie Ferretti, falls in love with Perchik. Their community considers Perchik, portrayed by Ronnie Green, a radical for endorsing the changing society. Finally, Chava, their third eldest daughter portrayed by Kayla Dowdell, falls in love with Fyedka (Corey Martin), a Christian. Each of their marriages, to Tevye's dismay, moves them further away from their traditions. Even his wife, the sassy Golde portrayed by Ariann Forella, cleverly manipulated her husband (somewhat) which was pretty much unheard of at that time.

The entire company is truly top notch. Additionally, kudos to Patrick Grossman who co-designed the lovely set with Mr. Amy. The moving set is understated, rustic, and complemented the mood and medium size stage well. Debbie Parker's costumes prove to be beautiful and add to the old-time atmosphere. Also, you'll also find that Joseph Stein's book for this show moves along very well and keeps you engrossed in their struggles.

So, CM PAC certainly has another hit on their hands with Fiddler on the Roof. This is in addition to an exciting upcoming season with Godspell, Guys & Dolls, Kiss Me Kate, et al. An enthusiastic, talented cast and beautiful music make for a wonderful night of theatre.

Fiddler on the Roof is presented by Creative Ministries Performing Arts Centre of Oakdale, Long Island, through March 6th. Book by Joseph Stein, Music by Jerry Bock, Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, Directed by Danny Amy, Musical Direction by Mel Newman, Choreography by Jennifer Amy, Costume Design by Debbie Parker, Set Design by Danny Amy & Patrick Grossman, Sound Design by Brianne Boyd, Lighting Design by Alison Weinberger, Stage Management by Amanda Wenchel. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call 631-218-2810 or visit www.cmpac.com.

Photos by Tim Pappalardo

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