Music by Jerry Bock

Book by Joseph Stein

Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick

Based on the stories of Sholem Aleichem

 

We have for many years discussed Fiddler as one of our favoured shows but some how we never got around to it. We obviously have done now! The concept this time was to follow the family after they have left their village of Anatevka in Russia and are awaiting entry to the USA at Ellis Island. Here, encouraged by the other immigrants, Tevye begins to tell his story with the help of his family and friends.

Paul directed this venture and transformed this somewhat lumbering story to a neater version where the whole ensemble could play a part. For example, as Tevye had left Hodel in Russia with Perchik, another couple of immigrants were  chosen to play these parts. Out went the sewing machine scene (it never adds anything) and we started with Anatevka (for some, a courageous move perhaps?!). Combine this with a claustrophobic set of packing cases and luggage and stonking choreography from Richard, the show was bound to be a hit. And a hit is was. We played to our largest ever audiences in Penarth and Abergavenny and to rapturous applause.  We also did a one-off performance for the Women's Institute in Church Village and they loved it - a standing ovation!

As with Man of La Mancha, the challenge in this production was keeping up characterisation and concentration for the whole 2 hours 15 minutes of stage time. Not one person could be distracted as there is always someone watching you in the audience!

Special mention too for the costume and set - which all combined to give an authentic feel to the piece. Many hours of painstaking work had gone into the building of crates and packing boxes, skirts and aprons. All to good effect. Finally, we must mention the man of the show: Tevye, a.k.a Nick, who gave a performance of a lifetime - wonderful voice and a fantastic stage presence, backed up by a beautiful performance from Lorna as Golde. All in all, this show is one of the happiest the Company has ever produced; the atmosphere on stage and off of stage was fun and engaging for turns, crew and audience alike. Something we can feel justifiably proud of.