Review of 'The Fiddler on the Roof'

https://openairtheatre.com/production/fiddler-on-the-roof

I can't remember when I first heard the music of “Fiddler on the Roof”. Likely it was listening to the album (LP) conducted by John Williams and featuring violinist Isaac Stern. This is the soundtrack of the incredible motion picture and I remember being enraptured by the music which I know now largely know by heart. The Regents Park Open Air Theatre production of the musical has been widely acclaimed and given I have never seen the musical live I had to get tickets.

The musical tells the story of poor Jewish milkman Tevye (Adam Dannheisser) living in Anatevka, a tiny rural village in 1905 Russia, with his wife Golde (Lara Pulver) and their daughters Tzeitel (Liv Andrusier), Hodel (Georgia Bruce), Chava (Hannah Bristow), Shprintze (Darya Topol Margalith) and Bielke (Georgia Dixon). The traditional way of life of the village is coming under threat first with Tevye's daughters finding their own husband and refusing the husbands found by matchmaker Yente (Beverley Klein) then with increased hostility by the Russian government, itself on the verge of revolution. As the characters struggle to come to terms with these changes historical events overtake them.

The musical is imaginatively staged in the Open Air Theatre with a roof topped with corn overhanging the stage that is frequently used as a perch for the titular “fiddler on the roof” violinist but also serves as a cover for the on-stage band and the actors themselves. The scenes feature simple but effective, dramatic props that fill the small space: The horse cart drawn by Tevye (his horse is sick), and the tables of the local restaurant. The band does an amazing job bringing the full-bodied score to life, matching the action on the stage.

The actors throw themselves fully into the rolls though I did find it a bit odd to hear the British/American accents for roles that are typically performed by actors with strong Jewish and Russian accents. I simply can't imagine Tevye without thinking of Topol's accent, incredible vocal skills and demanding stage presence so I was always going to be disappointed though Adam Dannheisser does a great job, adding his own vocalizations but not the vocal power of Topol. The supporting cast do a great job in their roles as they run to and fro in the performance.

The show is quite long at 2 hours 40 minutes long with a 20 minute interval though our performance was somewhat delayed when there was a medical emergency in the first half.

It was great to see this fantastic musical live on the stage with some great performances by the cast their demanding roles. It was interesting to see how they staged some of the iconic elements of the show but here the music is key and does not disappoint. Sure, it is not quite what I have been used to from the film but it great to visit Anatevka again in this timeless story about adapting to change and the power of love.

Rating: “Really good but I have some issues”

Review Date: 2024-09-21

Location: London (England)

Address: The Regent's Park, Inner Cir, London NW1 4NU ENGLAND

Public Transport: Baker Street

Telephone: +44 (0) 333 400 3562

URL: https://openairtheatre.com/

The Open Air Theatre is located in Regent's Park on the “Inner Circle” road (follow the signs), nestled in the trees. The theatre seats more than 1,000 people and shows productions throughout the summer months with a surprisingly varied repertoire. The shows generally have high production values and are very professional.

There is a bar and food on site under the seating area (so dry in rain) along with a picnic area which often serves barbecue dishes as well. The shows generally go on whatever the weather but if they are forced to cancel the show you are offered tickets for a later date (remember to pick up an application on your way out).