Staten Island is buzzing with excitement.
The borough’s Summer Theater has reopened, bringing back a much-missed flair after Covid changed everything six months ago. Cast members are celebrating what feels like a reunion.
This year’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof” showcases the deep connections among ten families and various friends. Their bonds help breathe life into the quaint Russian town of Anatevka at the Cuny College of Staten Island.
“It was crucial for me to tap into those connections I experienced growing up; it gives this show an emotional depth,” shared a cast member.
“Many of us are alumni of community theaters where our families participated,” Fugate noted. “We were practically raised on this—designing lights and directing, all while watching friends shine on stage.”
It just made sense that these were the people to embody the spirit of Anatevka.
More than 90 people turned up to audition for this community theater production. In the end, 46 made the cut for the orchestra, complemented by 10 musicians.
This marks Staten Island’s first summer theater showcase since before the pandemic hit.
Cast members have been putting in serious rehearsal hours, five days a week, since late May, as they gear up for the opening on July 31.
Though the journey has been challenging, many are seeing it as a homecoming, united on stage, especially alongside family.
BJ High, 46, expressed his honor in playing Tevye, the struggling milkman surrounded by his wife and children.
“We practice anywhere we can—kitchen, basement, even the pool,” he joked, mentioning he met his wife, Christie, during a performance in 1998. “With the kids around, I sometimes grab the script in the car while I’m driving.”
Recently, he had two of his kids act out scenes with him while they drove. “It was incredible,” he remarked.
This entire experience resonates even more profoundly due to the play’s core themes, which highlight tradition during turbulent times.
“’Fiddler’ is about family and tradition, making it the perfect choice for this specific cast. It’s about returning to our roots,” he added. “This tradition unites generations for something meaningful.”
This year’s performance is dedicated to Jennifer Straniere, who led the performing arts program at Staten Island University for 18 years until her passing in June 2021.
“Fiddler on the Roof” was selected as it was a favorite of Straniere’s.
This summer, Straniere’s legacy continues as her family takes the stage together.
Katie Micha, 30, plays Tevye’s youngest daughter, Chava, and shares the stage with her aunt and cousins. “This is genuinely one of my favorite musicals; the music is fantastic, and the story is compelling. I can’t wait to perform,” she said.
“It’s amazing to see the entire Staten Island theater community come together. We all have such a long history with one another.”
