I did Hodel's Far from the Home I Love when I was in my last year of school. It's a very powerful song. Jerry Bock the composed loved to play with minor melodies.
I played Chava a year or so ago in Fiddler. Only reason was that I'm really small, and another woman who tried for Hodel was taller and looked older than me. I used Hodel's part to audition. It's a great show, even though it's really dark.
Also I have an HND in Acting and four years classical singing training, so hopefully I'll be able to give you some tips.
Reheasals will allow you to find out about your character. Make sure you know your lines early so that you can work on the delivery. And generally know what the play does at what scene. The director will tell you what Hodel will be feeling, and where you have to be, they will give you instructions on the traditions (like the pronounciation of 'Papa') and the way he wants the part put accross. Speak to the director.
Also, if you can, find out what type of clothes you will be wearing, and try to move how you would in the costume. For some scenes like the ghost scene where some directors like a dance scene with the majority of the cast, you may look like a total numpty rehearsing... dancing like a ghost, but it'll look good at the end with all the costumes.
When you are coming up to the performance run, remember when singing, to avoid dairy products as much as possible because they'll produce a ton of glut in ur throat and change the sound of your voice. Be patient with the director and the crew, cos they'll be stressed to the max. If your told to get out of the wings... then move. Scenery changes can be hard enough without people standing in the way. Oh yeah, and the week before the big performances, try to not belt out your songs, there's no need to because you'll have a mic, and also there's more chance of getting a sore throat from singing for long periods and having to talk.
Uh, I think that's a massive chunk... hope I've not bored you.
Oh, wow. Thank you. I really value your opinion, you seem like a pro. Thank you sooooo unbelievably much! And about diary products and other "dangerous" foods, would orange juice be one of them? I heard that orange juice also damages your voice. And are there any other foods?
Is that you in the picture? If so, you're really gorgeous (I'm assuming you're the one in the skirt).
Again, thank you SOOOO much! I must seem like a ditz saying it, but I love coming across an experienced person such as yourself.