Broadway by Children and for Children:
IDS-CC Students to Perform: Fiddler on the Roof, Jr

For immediate release:
April 21, 2003
Tampa, Fla

Fiddler on the Roof, Jr. may be a version of the popular musical adapted for young performers, but at Independent Day School-Corbett Campus, the effort elementary student cast members are putting into the junior Broadway production is nothing short of full-size, and then some.

That's because the students are looking forward to sharing their efforts with peers - other elementary school-age students for whom this version of the classic production is designed.

"Fiddler on the Roof, Jr. is an adaptation of the classic Broadway production that showcases young performers, and provides a terrific opportunity for a young audience to enjoy a real Broadway experience," said Michael LeBlanc, IDS-CC music teacher and production director.

According to LeBlanc, the play tells the complete story of the beloved Jewish dairyman, Tevye, who is trying to teach the traditions of the Jewish community to his five daughters in the small village of Anatevka in Tsarist Russia. It includes the original version's most popular songs, and communicates the same messages about the crossing and breaking of political and social barriers.

"The script, however, is abbreviated to tell the complete story in about 60 to 80 minutes. And with a cast of 67 fourth and fifth grade students, including 26 speaking parts, this version also enables us to highlight the wonderful talents of lots of students."

Evening performances will take place on April 23 and 24 at 7:00 p.m. in the school's theater, and are open to the public. Tickets are $5.00 and are available by calling IDS-CC at 961-3087, or at the door.

"We welcome all elementary school children in the area to come and enjoy this special Broadway performance customized just for them," said LeBlanc.

Founded in 1968, IDS, recently renamed Independent Day School-Corbett Campus, is a fully accredited, independent school located in northwest Hillsborough County. It serves 500 plus students in grades Pre-K through 8. At IDS, all children experience learning in a nurturing and highly academic environment focused on excellence and developing a positive self-concept. IDS-CC has become recognized as an exemplary school with over 700 visitors observing and learning from and with IDS-CC teachers. For more information about IDS visit www.idsyes.com.

Contact: Michael LeBlanc, Independent Day School-Corbett Campus
Telephone: (813) 961-3087