anyone played as the fiddler in fiddler on the roof?

Question

i have to be it for the school play. if anyone has played the part, i would just like to know how to prep for it and how to relax before going on stage! plz and thx in advance!

Answer 1

I played this part many times. It's fun -- but the music is deceptively challenging. AND, the choreography is even more so. I've had to dance down stairs (opening scene 'tradition'), dance a folk-type dance (wedding scene), click my heels, and even do a flip on a ladder (with spotters!) and end up on my feet with the fiddle tucked under my chin during the tavern scene. Yeah, it's strenuous - but if well done, it will bring down the house!

OK first, Practice the score! Learn it until you can play it in your sleep. Practice. practice practice!!!!!

Now then, As you're learning the score, practice walking around the room as you play it. Then start adding a skip step to the walk. Practice walking down the stairs, up the stairs, sitting down, getting up, lie on your back, etc. Get the picture. Work with the Choreographer so you can play the solos but still be a part of the action.

I'm sure the choreographer won't ask you to do a summersault - but if you can skip-step and such, to the score she will be delighted. Ask if you can improve this so if you find yourself on the wrong side of the stage or something like that, you'll be able to wing it. I've had to do that a time or two.

As for relaxing - don't focus on the audience. Focus instead on the other characters. For example, right after the tavern scene, the fiddler and Tevye characters do a little dance sequence - focus on Tevye - not on the audience.

Finally, don't sweat it. If you flub - oh well. You're on stage and you're supposed to be a bit on the tenuous side anyway - like a fiddler on the roof!

Have fun! Best wishes!

Answer 2

I haven't played in it, but I have seen the play two times, and it is awesome. Which part are you playing? Have a great time and picture the audience naked. =) Good luck!!