CINCINNATI (February 26, 2025)—Cincinnati Opera has announced a new name, date, and guest speakers for an event this spring, part of its popular series of Opera Raps. Opera Raps are free community conversations exploring the works featured during the company’s 2025 Summer Festival. For a complete list of Opera Raps, visit cincinnatiopera.org/operaraps.
The beloved musical Fiddler on the Roof is full of classic tunes like “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Matchmaker, Matchmaker.” The creators of the show—Jerry Bock (music), Sheldon Harnick (lyrics), and Joseph Stein (book)—were so prolific that they also produced many songs that did not make the final cut. Evans Mirageas and musical guests will serve as guides through the forgotten songs of Fiddler on the Roof, including hits from the show as we know it today and surprises from the archives.
April 10, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
Fiddler on the Roof: Wonder of Wonders—How Fiddler Came to Be
The Amberley Room, Mayerson JCC
8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236
Presented in partnership with the Mayerson JCC, this special two-part evening features preeminent Fiddler on the Roof scholar and author Alisa Solomon (Wonder of Wonders: A Cultural History of Fiddler on the Roof, Metropolitan Books) and Broadway scholar Ben Whiteley, who will trace the origins, creation, and worldwide success of one of the most beloved musicals ever written. With rare video footage of the creative process and live musical performances, Solomon and Whiteley will share behind-the-scenes stories alongside excerpts from Fiddler’s beloved score. Whiteley will also offer a fascinating glimpse into “the songs that got away”—selections originally written for the show that were cut prior to its Broadway opening.
Admission: Free, though reservations are required. To reserve, call 513-241-2742 or visit cincinnatiopera.org.
About Cincinnati Opera
Cincinnati Opera’s mission is to enrich and connect our community through diverse opera experiences. Founded in 1920 and the second-oldest opera company in the nation, Cincinnati Opera presents a thrilling season of grand opera every summer and engaging programs throughout the year. The company’s repertoire includes beloved classics and contemporary masterworks brought to life by some of the world’s most dynamic performers and creative artists.
Cincinnati Opera is supported by the generosity of tens of thousands of contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign. This project was supported in part by the Ohio Arts Council, which receives support from the State of Ohio and the National Endowment for the Arts. Cincinnati Opera also receives general season support from The Louise Dieterle Nippert Musical Arts Fund, Patricia A. Corbett Estate and Trust, and the Harry T. Wilks Family Foundation, along with general season and project support from many other generous individuals, corporations, and foundations. Cincinnati Opera is a member of OPERA America. Learn more at cincinnatiopera.org.
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