Fiddler on the Roof (Southampton)

Premiering at the Mayflower is a new production of Fiddler on the Roof, and I have to say that this production is near-perfect. The cast beautifully perform the story of Tevye the milkman and his three daughters, in the small village of Anatevka during pre-revolutionary Russia.

Nearly all the cast members play an instrument. From the opening song “Tradition”, Anatevka is presented as a community working together in ‘harmony’. Amongst the towering shacks the town feels vibrant and alive with music. Craig Revel Horwood‘s direction and choreography is thorough and his influence is seen in songs like “The Dream” which is both weird and creepy.

In the lead role is Paul Michael Glaser, known for playing Michael Starsky and also Perchik in the Topol film. He has the eccentricity of the character down to a tee as he sings “If I Were a Rich Man”. At the same time, he shows the character’s struggle to maintain his devotion to tradition, whilst keeping his family together.

Emily O’Keeffe, Liz Singleton, and Claire Petzal are a delight to watch as the three daughters, hoping that the “Matchmaker” would send them the perfect husband. Jon Trenchard is delightful as the timid Motel, and he sings a joyous “Miracle of Miracles”. Steven Bor meanwhile presents a daring revolutionary as Perchik. A special mention must also go to Jennifer Douglas, a spriteful fiddler

I cannot fault this production. This is a perfect Fiddler on the Roof. The multi talented cast performed the characters superbly and played the music with aplomb. A must see!

– David Jobson