If you have seen the original stage production of any new performance you inevitably compare it to the original. Topol in the London production of some thirty or forty years ago was made for the part and gave a towering performance. However Paul Nicholas, although not having the same overt Jewishenss gave an excellent first class performance as Tevye the father of 5 girls – three of whom were in the “to be arranged marriage market.” His singing and conversations with God were among the highlights as was his rendering of the old favourite “It I Was A Rich Man.” His professionalism shone through as the commanded the stage with such ease and presence.

 Sara Weymouth as Golde portrayed the long suffering and intensely practical Jewish wife to near-perfection and her duet with Paul Nicholas of “Do You Love Me” was expressively moving, Apart from Halcro Johnston as Lazar Wolf the butcher I felt the other supporting roles lacked the enthusiasm, realism and characterisation which they needed to keep up with the leads. At times their diction was awful and the singing was often barley audible. Now this may have been a problem with amplification but it just made watching it that little less enjoyable. 

The simple and almost minimalist set was hugely effective, and when working in harmony with this precise lighting managed to create beautiful sight and atmosphere.

 In particular the dream sequences was imaginatively and spectacularly stage and the dancing was fully of energy and precision both of which helped to really make you feel like you were watching something of a high standard that was well worth the ticket price. 

Overall Fiddler On The Roof is a thoroughly enjoyable evening, with a Stirling performance from one of theatre’s greats, Paul Nicholas. Definitely worth fiddling along to!

The Tick List

Set and Lighting

Cast

Story and Music


Overall

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