The classic musical “Fiddler on the Roof” has arrived in Norwich as part of its UK-wide tour, bringing with it a breath of fresh air and a reimagined production that is both traditional and modern. Directed by Jordan Fein, this sixty-year-old classic tells the story of a small Jewish village struggling to balance time-honored tradition with the unstoppable forces of change. The production features innovative choreography by Julia Cheng and design by Tom Scutt, which transforms the stage into a vibrant and immersive experience. With its talented cast, stunning set, and poignant storyline, “Fiddler on the Roof” is a must-see for audiences of all ages.
At the heart of the story is Tevye, the beleaguered milkman, played by Matthew Woodyatt, who brings heart and humor to the role of a staunch traditionalist. His love for his daughters and his desire to understand and adapt to the changing world make him a relatable and endearing character. Opposite him is Jodie Jacobs, who delivers a pragmatic and intelligent performance as Golde, Tevye’s wife. The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, and their duet “Do You Love Me?” is a highlight of the show, revealing a tender and buried emotion that complements Tevye’s buoyant earnestness. The daughters, Tzeitel, Hodel, and Chava, played by Natasha Jules Bernard, Georgia Bruce, and Hannah Bristow, respectively, each bring their own unique voice and perspective to the story, forging their own paths and making difficult choices that will resonate with audiences.
One of the standout aspects of this production is the choreography by Julia Cheng, which brings the stage to life without ever feeling cluttered. The cast moves seamlessly, and the ensemble’s performance is particularly effective during the reimagining of Tevye’s dream sequence, which is both eerie and playful. The staging is also noteworthy, with a suspended straw roof evoking the wheat fields of the town and the Fiddler, played by Roman Lytwyniw, suspended above the stage, adding an extra layer of depth and meaning to the production. The music, played by the orchestra positioned at the rear of the stage, is an integral part of the show, weaving in and out of the dialogue and action to create a truly immersive experience.
At the heart of every “Fiddler on the Roof” production is Tevye’s reflection on the fiddler, who is trying to scratch out a pleasant, simple tune without breaking his neck. In this production, the fiddler transcends decoration, becoming a symbol of Tevye’s silent conscience, mirroring his hopes, doubts, and unspoken prayers. The fiddler’s performance is sublime, adding a layer of resonance to the story that is both poignant and powerful. Overlaying the quiet human drama is the stark, unavoidable tension of pogroms, the threat of violence simmering just beyond the shtetl’s boundaries. Fein’s staging makes this tension implicit, weaving it into every joyous dance and tender moment, keeping a pulse of unease alive beneath the melody.
The design of the production, with its fragile wheat canopy and minimalist set, immerses the audience in both community and vulnerability, reminding us that Anatevka could collapse at any moment. This sense of vulnerability is a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and persecution, and the production does not shy away from exploring these themes. Instead, it presents them in a way that is both tender and brutal, shifting in tone from intimate moments to brutal disruption in an instant. The result is a production that is both a worthy revival of a classic musical and a timely reminder of the importance of community, tradition, and the human spirit.
This “Fiddler on the Roof” production is a must-see for anyone who loves musical theater, and its relevance to modern audiences is undeniable. The principal cast and ensemble create a show that is full of laughter, tears, and genuine communal catharsis, reminding us that, even after all these years, “Fiddler on the Roof” remains a powerful and urgent story that continues to resonate with audiences today. With its talented cast, stunning set, and poignant storyline, this production is a testament to the enduring power of musical theater to touch our hearts, challenge our assumptions, and remind us of the importance of community and tradition. Runs until August 16, 2025, this production is not to be missed, and its impact will linger long after the curtain call.
