Review: The MUNY's Wonderfully Special Production of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF

Set during a period of great turmoil just prior to the Russian revolution (1905), FIDDLER ON THE ROOF is a joyous celebration of life in times of uncertainty. Most versions I've seen have been scaled down considerably, focusing on the more intimate scenes. That's certainly not the case here. The MUNY's spectacular production gives us the full breadth and scope of Joseph Stein, Sheldon Harnick and Jerry Bock's thoughtful and heart warming take on themes of family and tradition. Anchored by a particularly strong cast and top notch staging this is, quite simply, perfection!

Beleaguered milkman Tevye is constantly philosophizing and conversing with God, in order to find a way out of his impoverished existence. With revolution looming on the horizon he faces the prospect of relocation and religious persecution. But, Tevye is more concerned with tradition than politics, and as the story unfolds he finds his beliefs taxed to their limit.

Michael McCormick is an absolute perfect fit as Tevye. His rich voice suits the material, and he's able to make the role uniquely his own. McCormick gives the part depth and power, and whenever he's on stage he's undeniably the center of attention. His renditions of "Tradition," "If I Were A Rich Man," and "Do You Love Me" are all excellent. Equally successful is Anne L. Nathan as his long suffering wife, Golde. She projects a considerable amount of inner strength, while also allowing for a bit of tenderness, if sometimes giving it up reluctantly.

Haley Bond is compelling as eldest daughter Tzeitel, promised to Lazar Wolf by her father and the matchmaker, but ending up married to childhood sweetheart, Motel, who's played with sensitivity by Alan Schmuckler. They share a nice moment during the song "Miracle of Miracles." Next in line to marry is Briana Carlson-Goodman as Hodel, who falls for Perchik, a schoolteacher Tevye takes in, and who's marvelously portrayed by Marrick Smith. I particularly enjoyed his take on the newly inserted tune (originally written for the film version), "Any Day Now." Carlson-Goodman does really nice work with the emotional tune, "Far From the Home I Love," as she prepares to follow her jailed suitor to Siberia. Carly Blake Sebouhian is even more forthright as Chava, who falls from grace when she marries outside her faith. Together, the daughters perform a delightful version of "Matchmaker," as they discuss the problems with arranged marriages.

Standing out among a very strong supporting cast are: Nancy Opel as Yente, the matchmaker; Peter Van Wagner as Lazar Wolf; Colby Dezelik as Fyedka; talented musician Andrew Crowe, as the titular Fiddler; as well as local favorites Jerry Vogel (Mordcha), April Strelinger, Taylor Pietz, and Zoe Vonder Haar.

Director Gary Griffin definitely captures the essence of this show, and each and every thoroughly memorable moment is realized with crystalline clarity. Alex Sanchez's choreography brilliantly fills the stage with talented performers doing their take on the classic work of original choreographer Jerome Robbins, and it's tight as a drum, and full of energy and enthusiasm. Robert Mark Morgan's scenic design and Amy Clark's costumes both capture the muted colors that are a fixture of the period. Rob Denton's lighting sets each mood nicely, and Brad Haak's musical direction is superb. Rarely have I ever heard the score sound so alive and vibrant. Nathan W. Scheuer's video projections add yet another welcome element in the background.

The MUNY's current production of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF brings a classic to life in extraordinary fashion! Be sure to check it out before August 5, 2016

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