When the lights shine the brightest, stars emerge on stage. The Statesboro community showed up in massive numbers from July 18-20 to witness these star-making performances in a theatrical musical showcase featuring their own local talent.
The original New York stage production Fiddler on the Roof, directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins, was brought to life in downtown Statesboro’s Averitt Center by director Eddie Frazier, musical director Lisa Muldrew, stage manager Annalia Small, choreographer Elizabeth McCooey, and a cast of talented local actors.
This production of Fiddler on the Roof explores universal themes of tradition and change, generational conflict, and oppression. Set in a Jewish village in Eastern Europe at the dawn of the 20th century, the story follows Tevye, portrayed by Jamey Saunders, as he struggles to balance his deep-rooted faith and customs with the desires of his three eldest daughters, each challenging the old ways in pursuit of love and independence.
The actors delivered captivating performances, evoking a wide range of emotions from audience members and putting on a stellar show for the sold-out crowds.
The cast didn’t just shine under the stage lights; they also built a special connection with the audience. These performers were Bulloch County’s very own community members, making their presence on stage even more meaningful.
This local production showcased the incredible talent within the community, bringing family, friends, and neighbors together to witness a spectacular performance.
Director Eddie Frazier expressed his amazement at the overwhelming turnout from the Statesboro community and gratitude for everyone who helped make the three-day showcase a success.
“This was such a huge turnout, and we want to keep doing things like this—getting the community more involved and bringing them more classics like Fiddler on the Roof,” Frazier said. “It makes me so excited for community theater to see this kind of response.”
The Averitt Center for the Arts plans to continue presenting classic plays like Fiddler on the Roof as they work to grow the community theater with remarkable performances from exceptional local talent—just like the ones Statesboro audiences experienced.
