FLASH FRIDAY: Sunrise, Sunset! FIDDLER ON THE ROOF Returns To Broadway

By: Pat Cerasaro Nov. 07, 2014

Today we are celebrating this week's news that a brand new revival of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF is returning to Broadway in 2015!

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Tradition
Just in time for its 50th anniversary this year, yesterday it was officially announced that Golden Age mega-hit FIDDLER ON THE ROOF will return to Broadway in 2015 starring Danny Burstein, set to be directed by Bartlett Sher. Nevertheless, all the sunrises and sunsets of the last half-century cannot even begin to shed all the necessary light on one of the most revered and oft-revived musicals in theatre history - not to mention highlighting its distinct cultural impact, as well, both then and now. Originally produced on Broadway in 1964, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF celebrates its golden anniversary this year, forever remaining one of the most popular and celebrated musicals of the Golden Age. Featuring a score by the vaunted dream team of Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick, with a book by Joseph Stein, the musical was originally based on the short story collection TEVYE AND HIS DAUGHTERS by Sholem Aleichem. FIDDLER ON THE ROOF was first produced on Broadway by the formidable showman Harold Prince, then at the start of what would be an incomparable career in the theatre, also featuring a passionate physical production directed and choreographed by iconic Golden Age master director Jerome Robbins. The original mounting of the musical garnered 10 Tony Award nominations, taking home 9, including Best Musical, Best Score, Best Book and Best Direction. A classic in its own time and certainly one today, the various charms and insinuating features of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF are copious, considerable, and, many would claim, countless.

First and foremost, FIDDLER features an unforgettable central role in the character of Tevye that provides endless fodder for comedically-inclined actor-singers. Of course, the original star of the show was none other than Golden Age icon Zero Mostel, with subsequent famous essayers of the part in subsequent revivals including Herschel Bernardi - who led the first Broadway revival in 1976 - and Topol - who headlined the 1971 feature film adaptation, directed by Norman Jewison. Modern era Tevyes have included Alfred Molina in the recent 2004 David Leveaux-directed Broadway revival, as well as his replacement, multi-award-winning playwright, performer and activist Harvey Fierstein. Additionally, the show is also a staple of schools and community theaters, meaning many viewers likely first experienced the show in a considerably less starry environment than that of Broadway, further abetting the merits of this marvelous musical.
Then, there is the score! Besides Tevye and his iconic character number "If I Were A Rich Man", FIDDLER ON THE ROOF also boasts memorable musical moments for many of the female characters, as well - especially the timeless trio afforded to Tevye's daughters byway of instant earworm "Matchmaker, Matchmaker", along with the charming duet for Tevye and wife, Golde, "Do You Love Me?", not to mention "Tevye's Dream" production number featuring Grandma Tzietl - but, all considered, the real standout showstoppers of all are the ensemble numbers, such as the unforgettable "Sunrise, Sunset" as well as "Tradition", "To Life" and "Anatevka". A score filled with more riches than many and more hits than most, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF is packed with heart, wit, thought, melody and a lifetime of fond memories of productions past.

L'Chaim
So, now, let's take a look at some of the most memorable productions and performances pertaining to FIDDLER ON THE ROOF from its colorful 50-year history.
First up, Zero Mostel performs his iconic song on the 1967 Tony Awards.
Next, Tanya Everett, Mimi Turque and Bette Midler lead "Matchmaker, Matchmaker" in 1968.
Now, see the famous opening song from Norman Jewison's film.
Chart-topping crooner Eddie Fisher famously covered one of the score's biggest hits.
Also, stage and recording superstar Eydie Gorme did a FIDDLER standout as only she could.
Check out the most recent Broadway revival starring Alfred Molina, featuring a young Lea Michele.
Plus, recall the dense history of FIDDLER with this fascinating look back courtesy of THEATER TALK.
Sheldon Harnick joins in a celebration of FIDDLER's 50th.
View music superstar Josh Groban very early on in his career in an amateur production of the show.

Lastly, take a look at the recent 2013 Stratford Festival production.
As a special bonus, revisit Gwen Stefani's hit cover of a FIDDLER tune.
What is your absolute favorite moment in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF? What about your favorite song? Furthermore, who would you like to see alongside Danny Burstein in the new 2015 Broadway revival? With a musical this memorable and a performer so well-suited to his role, the FIDDLER revival is sure to see many sunrises before its inevitable sunset.

Photo Credits: Don Dixon/Stratford Festival, etc.

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