Heartwarming 'Fiddler on the Roof' graces Gammage

The Tony Award winning musical “Fiddler on the Roof” graces the ASU Gammage stage this spring, with performances running from March 29 through April 3. Filled with a rousing, heartwarming score, which includes “Tradition,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “If I Were A Rich Man,” the musical is a classic for all ages.

Based on the stories of Sholom Aleichem, “Fiddler on the Roof” takes place in the Tsarist Russian village of Anatevka in 1905. It centers on humble milkman Tevye, who struggles to raise a family with five daughters and adhere to his sacred Jewish traditions – all while the political contention of the revolution swirls around him. Throughout the story, Tevye is forced to evaluate and come to terms with circumstances that challenge his traditions, family and village.

The current North American tour stars John Preese as Tevye. This is Preese’s ninth National Tour of “Fiddler of the Roof,” and he has played Tevye in more than 1,500 performances.

The original Broadway production, which opened in 1964, featured Zero Mostel in the starring role of Tevye. It was the first run of a musical in history to surpass the 3,000 performance mark and remains Broadway's 14th longest-running show in history. A film adaptation was made in 1971 with Chaim Topol as Tevye, who won a Golden Globe Award and was nominated for a Best Actor Award for the performance. Topol went on to reprise his role in various revival productions.

For more information on the show, or to buy tickets, visit the ASU Gammage Box Office or call 480-965-3434.