Fiddler on the Roof, Joseph Rowntree Thteatre, York
The award winning company NE Theatre York is in the Joseph Rowntree Theatre this week with the traditional musical Fiddler on the Roof.
Although the opening number is called Tradition there is nothing traditional about this production. Steve Tearle has directed and crafted this version with a completely modern take that somehow brings this 60 year old musical bang up to-date.
The story tells of humble Tevye who considers himself a modern man but is faced with three strong willed daughters,Tzeitel, Hodel and Chava, who wish to take their lives into their own hands … and marry for love. They do not want to follow the Jewish traditions but to live a life they chose themselves. A musical that gives a fantastic platform to women giving them their very own voice.
Set within a backdrop of a Jewish community forced out of their homes under a Russian regime and fleeing the land they love, the story is as thought provoking and as current today as it was then.
The show is beautifully crafted by Steve Tearle assisted by Finlay Butler. Joe Allen, Musical Director, has brought the sound that made the movie and the show of the same name so famous and memorable, his orchestra sounded sublime.
Melissa Boyd’s choreography has brought a modern twist while still keeping to the authentic moves of the time.
The highlights for me were the opening number Tradition , the bottle dance and the dream sequence which were all stand out moments, with strong performances throughout the show from everyone. The ensemble were in great voice with such amazing songs throughout the show, including Sunrise Sunset, Miracle of Miracles, Matchmaker and If I were a Rich Man .
Perri Barley plays Golde, often not recognised as a strong role but not in this production; she is in fantastic voice and acts the role with immense authority.
Tzeitel ( Maia Beatrice) brings her character to life, while Hodel ( Rebecca Jackson ) has one of the standout songs of the show, that I must admit, brought a tear to my eye, so beautifully sung.
Chava (Elizabeth Farrell) protrays a frail character but her dramatic scene with her ‘papa’ must be seen to be believed.
Stand out performances too from Finlay Butler (Motel), Kit Stroud (Perchik) with a great accent and in good voice; Callum Richardson (Fyedka ) is totally believable in the role, and Ali Butler Hind (Yente) has fantastic comedic timing. Noteworthy mentions for Chris Hagyard (Lazer Wolf), Pascha Turnbull(Fruma-Sarah), James O’Neill (Reb Mordcha), Toby Jensen and Kelvin Grant all did themselves proud.
Last but not least, known as York’s very own PT Barnum, Steve Tearle ( Tevye ) whose performance is masterful, his sensitivity and strength carries the show as he navigates through the story.
Everyone is so committed to this show I wish them all the best for the rest of the week.
Performances are until Saturday (April 27) with a matinee on the Saturday.
Tickets are available from josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk
Diane Turner
Stagey Lady 