2016 LOCALS LOVE US: MFHS’ ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ hits the right note

MARBLE FALLS — The Marble Falls High School choir program is known for its high standards and effort to continuously raise those standards. Last year, choir students — under the direction of Bryce Gage and Jenny Lynn Hodges — pushed themselves even further outside their comfort zones when they tackled the musical "Fiddler on the Roof."
"'Fiddler' was challenging in so many ways," Gage said. "It was a very heavy musical that tackled some very tough issues."
Gage pointed out that up until "Fiddler," the musicals the choir program put on were more upbeat and fun. "Fiddler on the Roof," though full of wonderful songs, also touched on things such as anti-Semitism, what it means to be family and a community, and leaving the place you lived your whole life because you're no longer wanted there.
"This one was a much tougher show for us," Gage said. "It really challenged us in different ways."
The Picayune readers and KBEY 103.9 FM Radio Picayune listeners noticed the students' efforts. They voted the Marble Falls High School choir's production of "Fiddler On the Roof" their favorite theater production for the Marble Falls area.
"The Marble Falls community has been so supportive of this program," Gage said. "I'm so thankful for this community and all the support they have shown us over the years."
This year, Gage revisited the classic musical "Oklahoma!" It was the first musical he produced at the high school when he became the choir director 10 years ago.
At the time, the choir program had approximately 20 students, but the numbers quickly soared to more than 100. The White House even invited the upper level choir to perform during Christmas one year.
Hodges and Gage continue to lead the kids to higher levels of achievement.
And the community continues to recognize the program’s efforts through its continued support and recognition such as the Locals Love Us awards.
daniel@thepicayune.com