Dirtadian ‘Fiddles’ His Way Into Publinx Field

 By Mike Ewald

 

Tevya, the lead character in the classic theatrical production “Fiddler on the Roof”, is playing in the 2003 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship.

 

More accurately, Armen Dirtadian , 50, of Tucson , Ariz. , who is a retired teacher and has 25-plus years of theater experience, has qualified for his seventh Public Links.

 

He retired from teaching in May of 2002 and spends his time working as an actor and a singer, along with his passion for amateur golf.

 

In addition to playing Tevya in places such as Tucson , Phoenix , Nashville and Austin , Texas , his stage resume includes: “ 42 nd St. ,” “Pirates of Penzance,” “Paint Your Wagon,” “Shenandoah,” “ Peter Pan ,” “Man of LaMancha,” and “Brigadoon.”

 

Dirtadian, who has tried to qualify for the APL 29 times, opened with a 4-over par 75 in the first round of stroke play at Blue Heron Pines Golf Club in Galloway , N.J.

 

“This course is perfect for the young players,” Dirtadian said. “I can keep up at times, but it’s not good for me because I am not as long of a player.” 

 

The East Course at Blue Heron Pines will serve as a true test as it will be playing 7,127 yards this week. 

 

“If you miss the greens, you are done,” Dirtadian said. “These huge greens can be quite severe and the options for reasonable hole locations are not great.”

 

Dirtadian attributes his success in recent years to his play at Arizona National Golf Club in Tucson . 

 

“My golf game has definitely improved since I started playing at ( Arizona ) National. I have been able to keep a consistent swing as it has been more repeatable,” Dirtadian said.

 

Due to his acting career, this will only be the fifth Public Links Championship Dirtadian has participated in after qualifying seven times. 

 

“I have it worked in my contract now, we have an understanding allowing me to take time off to play,” Dirtadian said. “After this event is the Arizona Amateur before I begin rehearsing for 11 weeks.” 

 

For a given show, Dirtadian typically performs 10 times per week for 11 weeks with his understudy typically taking on 15-20 shows, allowing him the time to play in amateur events.

 

As far as the relationship between his two passions, he says: “Golf and acting are very similar in terms of focus and concentration.  Golf is harder for me though, performing comes naturally.  Performances are different day to day, but not as different as golf.

 

“In such a huge event dominated by these college athletes, I hope to give my best effort and stay mentally and physically healthy.”