Fiddler on the Roof

Synopsis

In Tsarist Russia in 1905, poor dairyman Tevye is doing his best to preserve tradition in the face of a changing world by marrying his daughters off in the traditional Jewish way. But revolution is in the air and the young are guided by their hearts, not their elders. When his daughters refuse the matchmaker's advice and marry for love instead, Tevye must choose between their happiness and his beloved traditions.

Our Review:

16 April 2002

The tale of Tevye, the Jewish milkman eking out an existence in a shtetl (village) in Tsarist Russia and trying to do his best for his wife and family of marriageable daughters receives a bold new treatment in John Doyle's production.

Doyle's hallmark concept of casting actor-musicians proves an inspired way of telling this story of family life in changing times. We're used to the big all-singing, all-dancing approach but so much of this story takes place in the intimacy of Tevye's village home. So the wooden beams of this lovely theatre space blend effortlessly with Mark Bailey's simple in-the-round design and Richard Jones' atmospheric lighting to draw us in.

Doyle's concept has another, more sombre intent too. Despite the threat of persecution ever looming over these beleaguered Russian Jews, the story is bittersweet, with hope for a better future balancing fear of the unknown. That balance is tipped subtly but firmly by the yellow star, the Nazis' obligatory lab...

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Latest User Review

USER: Whatsonstage.com - 2 May 2002:

This is a really good show. The talented team of actor-musicians provide genuinely moving performances whilst the director has turned this small apce's limitations to his advantage and created a show much larger than you would believe possible. Loved it....

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