Staging a revolution for fun

AMATEUR performers from Nantwich are busy rehearsing their latest show, which opens at the Lyceum Theatre in Crewe next month.

The Acton Amateur Operatic Society, now in its 86th year, will be performing one of the most popular musicals ever written - Fiddler on the Roof.

The show is directed and choreographed by Sheryl Haydock-Howorth, with musical direction from Neil Garbett.

The cast includes Mark Emtage, Angela Kenworthy, Glynis Hudson, Mike Malone, Darren Thornhill, Ken Brindley, Elaine Pittwood and Charlotte Platt.

The action is set in 1905 on the eve of the Russian Revolution in the small village of Anatevka.

Jewish dairyman Tevye, his wife Golde and their five daughters live a traditional life, which has seen them through many hardships.

But times are changing and Tevye is struggling to hold onto the life he so dearly loves, faced with a tide of danger in the wake of the revolution that ultimately results in the disintegration of the community.

Fiddler manages to include moving love scenes, wild and boisterous dancing, comic moments and some of the genre's most popular songs such as Matchmaker and If I Were A Rich Man.

The work challenged the rules of commercial success with its ability to be hugely entertaining while dealing with issues such as persecution and social upheaval.

The show runs at the Lyceum from October 3 to 7. For tickets call 01270 537333.