On May 14^th and 15^th, students from The Help Group’s Village Glen and Bridgeport schools put on a delightful performance of the classic musical Fiddler on the Roof.

The performance included unforgettable renditions of musical numbers like “Tradition”, “Matchmaker”, “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Sunrise, Sunset.” Students performed touching solos, duets and even showcased a rousing and dynamic vocal round robin during “The Sabbath Prayer” song. The student performers soared under the direction of Jacqueline Schultz, Director of Performing Arts at The Help Group, and the musical direction of Mitch Kaplan.

The impressive set was created by Bridgeport Vocational Education students out of reclaimed wood and found material – under the guidance of teacher Josh Ziskin.

“I am so proud of this year’s production of Fiddler on the Roof, and the students and faculty who made the show possible. The performing arts give our students an invaluable gift – the ability to grow and learn through creativity. When I see the students’ proud, beaming faces as they hear the applause at curtain – I could not be more thrilled,” said Pam Clark, Director of Autism Schools.

This Spring, The Help Group’s Summit View School also mounted a production of Beauty and The Beast. The show was directed by Jacqueline Schultz, under the musical direction of Mitch Kaplan, and the art direction of Summit View art teacher, Rosie DeMarco. Rosie and Jacqueline created the costumes for the show, with the help of Sarah Lomke – a Teacher’s Assistant at Summit View. Naomi, a Summit View student who played the lead role of Belle, is a prolific performer who has appeared on Netflix’s hit show A-Typical and many commercials.

Jacqueline Schultz remarked, “As ever, I was so moved by the commitment of these young performers in both productions of Fiddler on the Roof and Beauty and The Beast. Their joy and enthusiasm during rehearsal and throughout performances was truly inspiring. I continue to be amazed by the children of The Help Group!”

Our heartfelt thanks to Jacqueline Schultz, Mitch Kaplan, Josh Ziskin, Rosie DeMarco, Sarah Lomke and all of the students, teachers and faculty who made these marvelous two productions possible!