Students shine: Theater talent on display in Fiddler on the Roof

By NORA HYSTAD 
The Tower 

The Manteca High School theater department, led by Dawn Coyan, has staged an exceptional production of the timeless classic "Fiddler on the Roof."  

With tickets priced at $10 for adults and $8 for students of all ages, the show promises to be both accessible and enriching. Showtimes will be Friday April 5th  at 6:00, and April 6th at 1:30 and 6:00. Starring Ethan Matthew’s as the dairy man, Snowden Snyder as the fiddler, and KR Karthikeyan as the butcher. 

Mrs. Coyan, the dedicated theater teacher, shared insights into the process of joining the theater program.  

Students have the opportunity to enroll in various classes, including introduction to theater, intermediate theater, advanced theater, and technical theater and design.  

Additionally, there's a thriving Thespian Club that meets after school, providing avenues for students to explore their passion for performing arts. 

 Building the intricate sets for the production has been a collaborative effort, involving both students and faculty. The process, spanning several months, required meticulous planning and execution.  

 Coyan highlighted the dedication of her students, particularly those in the technical theater and advanced wood classes, who contributed to the construction of elaborate stage elements. 

"We've got some great voices, by the way, and some really excellent acting. I'm very pleased with how it came out, but I'm really also pleased that we've had to deal with some of the issues and themes that come up in the show, themes of change, how hard change is, how we like to hold on to our traditions, but then times are changing, but also how people groups have gotten pushed out of countries" Coyan said.  

Rehearsals for the performance began in January, with students devoting countless hours after school to perfect their roles. 

 Coyan commended the students for their commitment and praised their remarkable talents, noting the exceptional acting and vocal performances that have brought the story to life on stage. 

Reflecting on the themes of "Fiddler on the Roof," Coyan emphasized the importance of addressing issues of change, tradition, and displacement, which resonate with historical and contemporary contexts. 

 Through the production, students have engaged in meaningful discussions about these themes, gaining valuable insights into their relevance in today's world. 

When asked about her choice of "Fiddler on the Roof," Coyan expressed her personal affinity for the show and its enduring significance. Despite initial unfamiliarity among some students, the production has garnered widespread appreciation and love from all involved. 

The multicultural rally provided another opportunity for students to showcase their talents and cultural awareness. Coyan  lauded her students' performance, highlighting their enthusiasm and ability to bring diverse cultures to life on stage. 

The theater production of "Fiddler on the Roof" at Manteca high stands as a testament to the talent, dedication, and creativity of its student and faculty.  

“We've been working tirelessly and just so hard for these past few months since the beginning of January. And I really think that the show is gonna go off without a hitch. I really think everyone's going really enjoy it,” said Ava Dos Reis, one of the student performers. 

Through their outstanding performance, they have not only entertained audiences but also sparked meaningful conversations about the human experience.