Matthew Woodyatt in Fiddler on the Roof UK tour 2025. Credit: Johan Persson.
Fiddler on the Roof, The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham.
One of the all time classic musicals presents itself in a new production direct from the West End.
And this Regent Park Open Air Theatre production is nothing short of phenomnal.
The original 1964 original production was the longest running on Broadway for 10 years and won multiple awards. It was of course made into a major hit film adaptation in 1971 and contains many songs that are a staple of musical theatre (“If I Were a Rich Man” probably the most well known).
Set in 1905 Russia, the story centres on Tevye – a milkman in the village of Anatevka – who tries to keep his Jewish traditions as outside influences encroach upon his family’s lives. Also his eldest three strong-willed daughters have their own ideas of marriage and love which are at odds with his and what is traditionally believed best.
In the central role of Tevye (a role made famous by Topol) is Matthew Woodyatt. He is charismatic, funny, endearing and engaging. Whether he’s acting. singing, narrating, or having his many conversations with God he really commands the stage. Also wonderful is Jodie Jacobs as his wife Golde. She brings such heart to the role that she’s literally in tears by the end. A very powerful performance.
Other stand outs are Dan Wolff as Motel the local tailor who is in love with one of the daughters. He is absolutely adorable in the role and an audience favourite. Beverley Klein plays Yente the gossipy village matchmaker. She is just divine and a joy to watch every second she is on stage.
Special mention must also go to the fiddler himself – Raphael Papo – who was just sublime, and really set the mood for the entire piece.
This is a real ensemble piece however and the whole cast are wonderful.
The set really adds to the show, A simple use of rows of corn and an anything but simple “roof” of corn which rises is especially effective with the fiddler on it. It’s all visually stunning and atmospheric.
There are so many stand-out moments in this show and it has been beautifully crafted. It keeps all the traditional elements but also adds something new. It’s so special.
Although this is a joyous musical it is also an extremely powerful drama, At its heart it is the story of the persecution of Jewish people which sadly is as prevalent today as the year it is set. It is therefore all the more important the this show is still running.
Not just a fantastic musical – a stunning piece of theatre. A must-see.
5 stars. An outstanding new production of a classic.
