Creating Tradition--"Fiddler on the Roof" at Aspire (Part 1)

How do you unite a group of students from 13 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and bound for 3 different high schools? This was one problem facing brand new Aspire Middle School in Lacey, Washington. As a school for the performing arts, Aspire has worked to achieve unity through drama, dance, and music. To celebrate the unity and sense of community in their new school, Aspire chose "Fiddler on the Roof" for its inaugural musical production.

Through their portrayal of the sometimes humorous, often tragic lives of Jews living in a small town in Tsarist Russia the students have learned about tradition and community. Through hours of after school and weekend rehearsals the students are learning to work together to become their own community. As the characters and scenes took shape, new friendships, and talents have been formed.

Tonight (Thursday, June 10th,) is the opening night for "Fiddler on the Roof". The show is being performed at at Timberline High School on 6120 Mullen Road SE in Lacey. Performances will be Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (June 10th, 11th and 12th) at 7:00 and at a Matinee on Saturday at 2:00. You can buy tickets on-line through Seat Yourself. Seating is limited and close to being sold out so if you are buying tickets at the door I suggest you come early.

I'm calling this blog post "Part One" because later I'll post my review of "Fiddler" as well as quotes from the cast and crew involved later. (Along with more photos.)

The selection process for incoming students at Aspire has been a source of controversy in this community. I would urge you to go see "Fiddler on the Roof" and see how these students have risen above the controversy and come together to show their unity, not only for their school, but for all of Lacey.