It has been some years since the musical Fiddler On the Roof graced a Broadway stage. It was a long-running hit during its original run in 1964 and has been revived on Broadway four times. A new, North American tour of Fiddler recently reached Milwaukee. Showing no signs of its age, this energetic Fiddler can still captivate an audience with its charm, warmth and compassion.
The tale revolves around Tevye, a humble milkman in a remote Russian village. In this production, John Preece plays Tevye to perfection. Although he may not be a household name (as was Zero Mostel, who is most closely associated with the role), Preece has virtually made an entire career out of playing this philosophical, comical and befuddled character.
Tevye is the story's narrator, and he begins by strolling through his small town, Anatevka. Admitting that the town isn't much to look at, Tevye focuses on the people who live there. Everyone in Anatevka has a unique purpose, a unique place in this tiny world. Eventually, we meet Tevye's family: wife Golde and their five young daughters.
Much of Fiddler's charm comes from its score, with such memorable songs as "Sunrise, Sunset," "If I Were a Rich Man" and "Matchmaker, Matchmaker." Unfortunately, the rather small orchestra for the tour isn't quite up to the task of creating the music's full effect. At least there are plenty of actors onstage and they sing up a storm. This production offers audiences a chance to see Jerome Robbins' original direction and choreography. That's great from a historic point of view, but it doesn't leave much room for improvisation or updated dance moves. But it is a force in capturing the essence of what has made Fiddler an enduring favorite: the strong family bonds and spiritual traditions that are tested by Tevye's children. Each of the three older sisters has strong opinions about the men they will marry. Tevye needs to weigh tradition and his responsibility to his community against his children's needs. Eventually, the daughters have their way and Tevye - like all parents - spends the rest of his days wondering if he did the right thing.
While John Preece (Tevye) gives a knockout performance, there are some weaknesses in the cast. Golde, his wife, is too shrill and loud. Also, Birdie Newman Katz makes Yente the Matchmaker an especially annoying presence. Otherwise, performances are at least capable or better. As Motel, the tailor, Andrew Boza begins as a gangly youth who evolves to become a man and, eventually, a husband. Equally wonderful is Kevin Stangler as a wandering student who gives lessons to Tevye's daughters. His low-key performance is a dramatic contrast to the emotionally stylized antics of those around him.
The set looks a bit chintzy by today's standards, but perhaps that, too, is intentional. Perhaps the designer was imagining a place that could be blown away at any minute.
