Hana Pruzansky (left), Lauren Gutstein and Max Stein rehearse for their roles in the Performing Arts Conversatory productions of "Fiddler on the Roof."
The Performing Arts Conservatory, based in Los Gatos at the Jewish Community Center, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with performances of the musical Fiddler on the Roof by three casts of different ages--a total of about 120 children.
The 5- to 8-year-olds in the On Broadway group perform an adapted version of the show. They also study and experience activities in acting, dance, stagecraft, makeup, music, pantomime and puppetry.
The 9- to 11-year olds of the London Company present the full-length musical. Between rehearsals, they also learn about acting, performing, improvisation, makeup, props and stagecraft.
The Theatrical Apprentice Program, for children between 12 and 15, includes a full-length production of Fiddler, plus a separate Broadway revue. They also take master classes in method acting, audition techniques, specialty makeup, choreography and acting for the camera.
PAC founder and artistic director Laurel Perelman-Cohen emphasizes creative and emotional development of young actors with individualized attention.
Fiddler on the Roof performances will run from July 27 through Aug. 4 at Lynbrook High School, 1280 Johnson Ave., San Jose. For show times and ticket prices, call 358-3636.
This article appeared in the Los Gatos Weekly-Times, July 24, 1996.
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