MADISON, Wis.— One of the biggest "traditions" is finally making its return to the Overture Center for the Arts: Broadway.
"Fiddler on the Roof" marks the return of Broadway tours at the Overture in Madison, Wisconsin.
The Tony award-winning musical follows Tevye, a poor Jewish man, and his family in 1905 Russia. He brings in a matchmaker in hopes to find suitable husbands for his five daughters. But they have little interest in sticking with traditions. All the while, the family must face the rising anti-Jewish sentiment in their country.
Kelly Gabrielle Murphy, who plays the oldest daughter Tzeitel, has been with the tour since 2018, and said she is thrilled to be back on stage after a long pandemic-driven break.
We talked with her ahead of the show's Wisconsin stop.
Spectrum News 1: You've been with "Fiddler on the Roof" for a long time now. What's the most rewarding part of being involved in this production?
Murphy: The show itself. The story is basically perfect. I still find something new and enjoy doing the show so much. As soon as I get on that stage every night, that's when it all feels worth it.
Spectrum News 1: Tell us about your character.
Murphy: She is the first to break from the tradition and decide that she wants to marry somebody she loves rather than somebody her parents choose for her. She is very strong, very nurturing, smart... The fact that I get to play, in a golden-age musical, a strong female character that is determined to get what she wants is just really fun.
Spectrum News 1: What do you think the impact is of portraying the Jewish culture and religion on a Broadway-level stage like this?
Murphy: I think it's extremely important. This show means a lot to people of the Jewish faith and culture: To have it at this magnitude, bring it around the country, and teach people who might not know about it. It means so much to them. I am honored to be a part of bringing it around the country.
Spectrum News 1: What sets this show apart?
Murphy: The dancing is spectacular. The choreography was reimagined by an Israeli choreographer, Hofesh Shechter, who's dancing is super exciting. These dancers are more contemporary dancers than what you would think of in typical musical theater-style dance. It's so exciting. It's really grounded in the story as well.
Spectrum News 1: What do you hope people take away from "Fiddler on the Roof?"
Murphy: I think this show hits differently now after many of us have spent even more time with our families and loved ones in the pandemic. This show is a story of family, tradition, love and what happens to communities as the world changes, and that is what we just went through... This show spans many generations, and I hope that people can identify with at least one character.
"Fiddler on the Roof" runs through Nov. 21. All patrons must wear a face mask and show either proof of vaccine or a negative COVID-19 test to attend. More information can be found here.
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