The final two shows of the 2013/2014 Stage West season is a contrast of modern and traditional. The season will wrap up with Avenue Q opening June 26th, which is pretty much the polar opposite of current production Fiddler on the Roof.
It is great that the company continues to provide theatre from a range of productions that can appeal to different people. It is also interesting that the audience for both shows will likely be as different as the productions themselves.
Fiddler on the Roof debuted in 1964 on Broadway and was the longest running Broadway show until Grease surpassed it. With a film adaptation in 1971 and songs that have been ingrained in pop culture over the decades like "If I Was A Rich Man" and "Matchmaker, Matchmaker", Fiddler on the Roof has been established as a classic.
Set in a little village of Anatevvka in 1905 anti-semetic Russia, Fiddler on the Roof centers on Tevye, the father of five daughters, and his attempts to maintain his family and Jewish traditions against outside influences. His three oldest daughters prove strong-willed like their mother and choose husbands that he does not approve of. As tradition is broken the outside world encroaches on their village.
The Stage West production stays true to the original. The large cast is loaded with talent, which build on the material. The simple set transitions easily between Tevye’s home and other locations in the village.
Fiddler on the Roof is a show that someone will either love or be indifferent to, regardless of who puts it on. It is long, as many musicals of that era are, and feels somewhat dated with strong religious overtones. By the same token it is true to that era and an interesting look into what life was like 110 years ago. Those who enjoy classic musicals will certainly have a great time. Someone who is not a fan of musicals will not.
The Stage West chefs have put together a really strong buffet for this show. Highlights include an African-spiced chicken and tempura coconut shrimp as well as the usual sushi, salad and carving stations.
