Fiddler on the Roof

“Fiddler on the Roof” from the book by Joseph Stein with Music by Jerry Bock and Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick has continued to be a popular Musical. Many of the ideals, problems and attitudes are still relevant in today’s Society. This show is still obviously popular Box Office looking at the audience numbers over the run at The Lowther.

I was looking forward to this production as it is one of my favourite shows, with a lovely story line and memorable music.

The show opened with a simple but effective set and Tevye, Gavin Tyrell introduced us to his home and the various characters who lived there.

The opening routine was excellent with a very well choreographed ensemble and good pace, which augured well for the rest of the evening. There were some very good performances tonight. Gavin Tyrell gave a powerful performance but I sadly missed an attempted Jewish accent. This was not missing with Golde, Paula Curtis and the three main daughters Tzeitel, Danielle Wrench, Hodel, Ciara Curtis and Chava, Sophie Morrison.

Golda was the perfect foil for the irascible Tevye and Tzeitel, Hodel and Chava were all delightful characters who moved and sang beautifully.

I have seen Andrew Would in many roles over the years but I feel that he excelled as the Tailor, Motel. His was a delightful portrayal, never out of character. He sang well and his transformation from the nervous young man to the self -sufficient father was excellent.  I was impressed with Perchik the Revolutionary Student played by Darren Skelly. His performance, as the “Radical,” was very convincing and I enjoyed the “ larger than life” character Lazar Wolf, Bernard Kennedy, who was outstanding in his confrontations with Tevye.  Una Bird showed all her experience and comic timing in her cameo role of The Matchmaker, Yente. Her characterization was so convincing as she tried to influence the family. There was a very good atmosphere among the entire cast as they were all completely involved in the storyline and the effects on their community. The pace never faltered and we were able to follow the highs and lows of all involved.

The choreography throughout was first class.  I appreciate that most productions of this piece use similar routines but tonight there was a freshness about them all and both dancers and ensemble were excellent.

I must congratulate Elaine Morrison, Choreographer, on her work.

Singing on the whole, by the Ensemble, was good but I felt that some of the lovely harmonies in “Sunrise Sunset” were missing.

The Orchestra under the baton of Chris J Andrews, Musical Director was one of the highlights of the evening for me. Great musicians! The balance between cast and orchestra was excellent, not always the case with many productions I see. I was sitting on the front row and was never overpowered. Congratulations to Chris and orchestra members.

Costumes were appropriate for the period and there had been considerable attention to detail all enhanced by some clever lighting.

There was a good reaction from audience members through the entire evening and Alison Thornton, Director, must be delighted with the overall production. I had a very enjoyable evening with you and I look forward to your next production.

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