I laughed. I cried. I hummed along. And I realized this is one of those DNA pieces for me -- right up there with LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE and THE BLACK STALLION. It's got so many of the elements I love, so many of the layers I want to include in my own stories and poems.
1. It's historical
2. It gives a glimpse of a culture different than my own
3. It's about family
4. And change
5. About quiet defiance
6. About overcoming hardship
7. Holding fast to what we believe in ("Tradition!")
8. About choosing love
9. And letting go
I'm not sure how old I was when I first saw FIDDLER. It feels like one of those that's always been with me. I looked it up, and the movie came out in 1971, after the musical's 1964 debut. So, yes, it really has been with me my whole life!
If you haven't seen it lately, give it a whirl. It stands the test of time for sure. And if you're in Birmingham, wow, go see it! Excellent production.
We could probably sing a duet of the songs. So memorable and classic.
ReplyDeleteHolding fast and letting go -- such a challenging pair to balance! I like "quiet defiance." xo
ReplyDeleteThat haunting fiddler himself is an awe inspiring character. Wonderful story and musical, I saw a long time ago with Zero Mostel as the Fiddler, it was excellent!
ReplyDeleteI saw it, too, a few weeks ago. It was wonderful!
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