"Fiddler on the Roof" smashes VPA records

WASILLA - When Valley Performing Arts' "Fiddler on the Roof" opened to sold-out audiences for two shows, it was only a sign of things to come.

"Fiddler on the Roof" has sold out every show since its Sept. 8 opening, and in response, VPA has added two more performances before the Oct. 8 close.

The shows have been added as matinees for the final two Saturdays of the performance.

On Sept. 30 and Oct. 7, 2 p.m. shows are being offered, in addition to the normal 8 p.m. shows the same days. The Oct. 7 show will be interpreted for the hearing-impaired, as well.

"Fiddler on the Roof" is the first production of VPA's 25th season, and VPA is hoping things go as successfully for the rest of the season. That's because "Fiddler on the Roof" has proven to be VPA's most successful production ever, in more ways than one.

It will have played more shows than ever before, in front of more people than ever before, and generate more revenue than any other drama performance in the Valley. And that is just the business end of the production.

"Fiddler on the Roof" also includes the largest cast VPA has assembled, 43, and the largest orchestra for a VPA production, with 12 members.

Olson, the artistic director of VPA, is also directing "Fiddler on the Roof."

The cast, which is drawing rave reviews, includes Tim Tucker, Chera Boom, Laura Arnold, Eva Nelson, Catherine Sullivan, Ted Carney, Gunnar Babcock and Brian Long.

The sets were designed by Brian Mead and built by VPA's technical director, Rod Mehrtens.

Damien Salvo did the lighting, and the costumes were designed by Linda Olson and Genie Siedler.

Tickets for the two additional shows are available at all CARRS TIX locations, as well as by calling 1-800-478-7328.

All shows are at the Fred and Sara Machetanz Theatre in Wasilla, home of all VPA productions.

For more information about VPA or about upcoming productions, interested people may contact the theater at 373-9500.