Fiddler on the Roof | Short Review

There are many jolly moments in Fiddler on the Roof but, goodness, it’s one of the saddest musicals ever written. Jordan Fein’s contemplative new production, staged in the only permanent London theatre without a roof, uses the outdoor setting to terrific effect as darkness descends and racist rioters threaten to drive out the close-knit Jewish community of Anatevka.

Broadway actor Adam Dannheisser, making his UK debut, is a splendidly hearty and endearing Tevye; Lara Pulver makes a nuanced Golde, and Liv Andrusier is a captivatingly defiant Tzeitel. The Fiddler himself, the mesmerising Raphael Papo, is an active participant in the action and the band, under the supervision of Mark Aspinall, fully captures the joy as the well as the plaintiveness of Jerry Bock’s score.

PRODUCTION CREDITS

Fiddler on the Roof by Jerry Bock (music), Sheldon Harnick (lyrics), Joseph Stein (book)

Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, 6 August 2024

Starring Adam Dannheisser, Lara Pulver, Liv Andrusier, Georgia Bruce, Hannah Bristow, Dan Wolff, Daniel Krikler, Beverley Klein, Michael S Siegel, Raphael Papo et al

Directed by Jordan Fein

Fiddler on the Roof is playing at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre until 28 September 2024 – for more information and tickets, visit openairtheatre.com

You can read our full review in the October issue of Musicals magazine out on 27 September – consider subscribing today!