When Broadway fans hear “Sunrise, Sunset,” it sends them straight to the little village of Anatevka, where a poor milkman, Tevye, and his five daughters face growing antisemitism in Russia.
Audiences can hear the wedding song — and other classics like “Tradition,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” and “Matchmaker” — when “Fiddler on the Roof Jr.” is performed at Jerry’s Habima Theatre from March 6-16.
Productions sell out year after year for Georgia’s only professional theater company featuring actors with disabilities.
Stephanie Alterman, who earned a BFA in theater arts from Boston University and studied at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, has spent 11 years with Habima running education programs, helping with sets and music, and working as the assistant stage manager. This year, she’s producing “Fiddler on the Roof Jr.”
Alterman said the theater company was drawn to the Jewish classic play because of the music.
“It’s a play everybody loves. The themes of tradition, resilience, and community resonate both with our cast and with our audiences,” Alterman said. “The characters are so rich and there’s a lot to dive into, so that complexity for our actors … is refreshing to see.”
Jonathan Roytenberg plays Tevye, the main character known for his beard, booming voice, and quick feet. Roytenberg the role is what brought him back to Habima for his second season. In 2024, Roytenberg performed in “Into the Woods Jr.”
“I come from a Jewish background and this musical speaks to a lot of my background, like the journey I’ve gone through in my spiritual beliefs. It provides a musical outlet to express that. I identify with Tevye more than any other character in all of Broadway,” Roytenberg said.
Alterman said of the 36 actors in “Fiddler on the Roof Jr.,” many have been with the company for eight, 10, or 15 years. She estimates the return rate is around 90 percent. Five actors have joined the 2025 production for the first time.
In its 32nd season, Habima is has been a pillar of inclusive arts programming, empowering individuals with disabilities to showcase their talents, build confidence, and foster community through the performing arts. This year, the program has also been recognized with a prestigious National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) grant.
The play runs about 75 minutes, Alterman said, and is appropriate for audiences of all ages.
Tickets are available online.
