LOS ANGELES/GLENDALE, CALIF – He commands the stage from start to finish. Veteran stage actor Richard Malmos is the ideal choice to play the lead and narrative character in Glendale Centre Theatre’s production of Fiddler on the Roof.
“The first time I saw Fiddler was when I was working as a part time usher in a theater,” he said. “I’m very fortunate that this is the second time I’ve gotten to play this show.”
Malmos said he also was cast in the show five years ago, but the performances were cancelled at the last minute. It was quite a disappointment, because Fiddler had not been shown in the region in over five years, he said.
The large cast of 24 actors has added a great excitement, Malmos said. “There’s only four people in the whole cast who have done this show before, so there’s great energy…great fun.”
Fiddler on the Roof is one of the great works of American musical theater is based on the book by Joseph Stein. Based in a small Ukrainian village in 1905, Fiddler tells the story of ‘Tevye’ (Malmos) and his five daughters who must confront long-standing traditions in their search for suitable husbands. The musical score by Jerry Bock includes some famous songs such as “If I were a Rich Man,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and others.
Malmos said he has played this show in other types of theaters, but thinks he likes the theater in the round format the best. “It’s like you’re having a conversation with everyone in the theater,” he said. “I just really love every single performance.”
Working with co-star Lisa Dyson (Golde) is another highlight of the current production. “She is absolutely wonderful in all respects…I adore her,” he said.
When he is not on stage, Malmos is a much sought-after voice actor as well. For more information, visit his web site at www.richardmalmos.com.
Fiddler on the Roof continues to play through March 24 at the Glendale Centre Theatre. For tickets, visit http://www.glendalecentretheatre.com or call (818) 244.8481.