Tradition!

Fiddler on the Roof – Broadway in Chicago

This is the evening in the theatre that we most definitely need right now. Given the current climate of this nation, it’s a much-desired story of family, faith and folks making the best of what life throws at them. It’s about life and love and, of course, time-honored traditions. The theatergoer who thinks he knows this show and has already seen “Fiddler…,” one of the world’s best-loved musicals, will be in for a big, pleasant surprise. Settled in Chicago for the next three weeks, this Tony Award-nominated show’s National Tour is a fresh, new staging of this musical classic. So, make no mistake: this is no old chestnut, but a revival that’s as fresh and exciting as the day it was written. 

Directed by the very talented Bartlett Sher (currently represented on Broadway with his productions of “My Fair Lady” and “To Kill a Mockingbird”), it boasts some of the most exciting, breathtaking choreography ever seen on stage, inspired by the concept and work of Jerome Robbins, but reimagined by Hofesh Shechter and recreated for the tour by Christopher Evans. The show’s musical supervision and new orchestrations are courtesy of Ted Sperling, and features a full, richly-sounding pit orchestra, conducted by Michael Uselmann. The show’s sparse, yet detailed, scenic design is by Michael Yeargan; authentic, textured period costumes, circa 1905 Russia, were created by Catherine Zuber, and enlivened with hair and wig designs by Tom Watson. Donald Holder lights the whole stage with drama, one minute and, with whimsy, the next. And this production features a topnotch cast, everyone of whom convey  all the honesty, warmth and passion of the characters they’re portraying.   

In a nutshell, this is the beloved, timeless tale of Tevye, a poor Russian Jewish father (“I have five daughters!”) and dairyman, who’s trying to provide for his family, while still upholding his cultural and religious traditions in an ever-changing world. The musical, based on the stories of Sholem Aleichem, overflows with love, truth and universal appeal. 

Since its 1964 Broadway premiere the show has seen no less than five New York revivals and countless international incarnations, national tours and amateur performances. The original production, one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history, garnered ten Tony Award nominations, winning nine. The 2015 revival, upon which this National Tour is based, was nominated for several Tony Awards, as well. A 1971 film version continues to be extremely popular, and starred international star, Topol. “Fiddler on the Roof” has launched the careers of many a star, including Zero Mostel as the original Tevye; and, more recently, favorite actor Danny Burstein starred in the latest Broadway revival.    

In this current tour, respected Israeli actor Yehezkel Lazarov doesn’t just play Tevye; he IS Tevye. Years of theatrical experience, both on and offstage, have added wisdom, maturity and empathy to portrayal by this somewhat younger actor. Even when the focus is on the supporting characters, you find yourself checking in with the story’s wise, omniscient observer for his reactions. Whether singing in his rich baritone voice (“If I Were a Rich Man” is especially delightful) or simply nodding his head or winking his eye at what’s happening around him, Mr. Lazarov absolutely commands the stage. 

The entire cast is charismatic and gifted. An unbelievably accomplished ensemble, especially a dozen or more hardworking, masterful, male dancers, are just one more reason to see this production. The supporting cast is another. They include, in memorable, supporting roles, Maite Uzal as a formidable, wonderfully shrewish Golda; Mel Weyn as her headstrong eldest daughter Tzeitel; Jesse Weil as an apprehensive, meek, but loving, Motel the tailor; Ruthy Froch, as feisty daughter Hodel, who breaks hearts with her rendition of “Far From the Home I Love;” Natalie Powers as middle daughter, Chava, who goes against her father’s wishes by falling in love with a man outside her religion; Ryne Nardecchia as Perchik, a handsome idealistic teacher, who charms all of Tevye’s daughters; and Carol Beaugard, who plays Yente with comic style and contained flamboyance. These actors, and every other performer, holds his own and makes this production sing. 

Within three short weeks this exquisite National Tour will leave the Windy City to share Joseph Stein, Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick’s charming musical with other cities around the country. Do yourself a favor: Don’t miss the chance to rediscover this warm, wonderful story of family, friends and faith. It makes the perfect holiday gift, and it comes at the best time, when we all need to be reminded of what’s important in life. Although lengthy, there’s no doubt that every audience member, regardless of age, gender, religion or nationality, will thoroughly enjoy this earnest production that tells a story that’s timeless.

Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

Presented December 18-January 6 by Broadway in Chicago at the Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph, Chicago.

Tickets are available at all Broadway in Chicago box offices, at all Ticketmaster locations, by calling the Chicago Ticket Line at 800-775-2000 or by going to www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com.