KildareNet News

CLANE, 11 April 2002: by Adrian Gately. On Saturday 23 March the final curtain came down on Clane Musical Society’s 19th musical "Fiddler On The Roof" after the production had played to packed houses for eight nights. Some of the cast are pictured above in rehearsals, before beards began to sprout.

During the course of the week Tevye and Golde played by Arthur McGauran and Angela Clifford invited audiences into their homes and hearts as they lived out their lives in a little Russian village called Anatevka. Those fortunate enough to have tickets were able to witness this family’s culture and traditions which were especially well shown in the beautiful "Sabbath Prayer".

The most breathtaking moment of each evening was the sight of four wedding guests dancing with wine bottles on their heads. There were great cheers and huge sighs of relief when the dance was completed with no smashing of glass. Special congratulations must go to David McGauran who managed to complete the bottle dance successfully for all eight nights.

Keeping a watchful eye on everything on stage was stage manager Marie Cusack who with her wonderful team amazed audiences once more with their stunningly authentic set with changed so effortlessly from scene to scene.

The music lead by Brain Brady was a pleasure to listen as always. And Deirdre Browne’s choreography was a joy to watch. Trish Fusco, wardrobe mistress, made sure everyone was well equipped with their aprons and head scarves for the mamas and daughters, and scull caps, prayer shawls and ringlets for the papas and sons.

Props by Mary Doyle were as diverse as ever, from a sewing machine to goose pillows. Setting each scene beautifully was Brigid Loughlin, lighting operator, who for the week of the show practically lived in one of the windows in The Abbey, endlessly adjusting her barn doors and amber gels.

And then of course there was Arthur, the Society’s director and lead man, Tevye. After 13 times playing the role he really has perfected it and every night the audience clearly shared that feeling with their appreciation for "If I Were a Rich Man".

After eight exhausting nights and months of rehearsals cast and crew still managed to have a great party on closing night and will soon be back in rehearsals for their next project: The New Ross Choral Festival. The drama never ceases with CMS and over the next few weeks they will be visiting fellow local societies to see their respective shows.

The Society would like to thank all their sponsors, patrons and friends, without who’s help, staging a show of such high standard wouldn’t be financially possible.

Congratulations also to Eileen Costello of Melitta Road in Kildare who was the winner of the Easter Hamper.

Watch out for more news and up and coming events from the Society at its website.