Review: Kenyon-Wanamingo ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ a Smashing Success

Kenyon-Wanamingo High School concluded their final public performance Sunday of "Fiddler on the Roof."

A nearly full auditorium saw the show, including me. Many of those I visited with during intermission and after the show say they were thoroughly entertained by the cast.

Most said they couldn't believe they were seeing a high school play. Indeed, the performance was very good. I am no professional critic, but I was heavily involved in theater in my youth until about age 24.

Hunter Stanke, who played Tevye, was excellent. He stayed in character throughout the performance, including during his solos on songs, and that is not easy.

Sydney Werner was also excellent as Golde, and the entire cast did a wonderful job.

When Randy Hockinson told me they were performing "Fiddler," I remember saying what a major undertaking that would be for a small school. They pulled it off with flying colors.

Hockinson directed the play and musical direction was provided by Stephanie Schumacher.

Hockinson told me after the show some of the props were built by Doug Thompson's shop students.

The costumes were the same as those used in the Kenyon Community Theater production in 1985.

Some members of that cast were in attendance Sunday and said they loved the show.

The cast is performing for the school Monday.

The lighting was good and props were handled well, in fact during a dancing scene after the wedding bottle dance had glass on stage, a young lady was cleaning up the bottles without a hitch.

Amos Avery was not only fantastic as the fiddler but also played another character on stage with flair. He was one of the bottle dancers.

Ironically the Oscars were handed out Sunday evening and I don't think it is such a longshot to think that someday somebody on the Kenyon auditorium stage could be giving their acceptance speech.

Thanks to all those involved from cast members to those backstage for your performance of "Fiddler on the Roof."