Fiddler on the Roof, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Review

Photo by Marc Brenner

Written by Amelia for Theatre and Tonic.

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own.

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After taking a special Tony Award for becoming the longest-running musical in 1972, Fiddler On The Roof cemented itself as a show that would go on to be produced for decades. Fiddler is a musical with music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and book by Joseph Stein, set in the Pale of Settlement of Imperial Russia in or around 1905. The show premiered on Broadway in 1964, and therefore celebrates its 60th anniversary with this current iteration at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre directed by Jordan Fein. Will a stunning sunset backdrop, and a gorgeous main set piece, does this production still hold as true as it did all those years ago?

The short answer is yes. The themes and discussions in this piece are more prevalent in today’s society than they perhaps ever have been. There were even sirens coming from the local area at one point which just added to the atmosphere. The setting fire of the set at the end of Act One was incredibly poignant and unsettling, a parallel to the current riots and violence going on in the UK. The outdoor set just worked so well, and the lighting was immaculate. 

The production was led by Adam Dannheisser as Tevye. A true head of the family and head of this show. He was assured and confident in the role, and could not be faulted throughout the whole piece. He was masterfully humorous and equally heartbreaking when he needed to be. My favourite moment was ‘If I Was a Rich Man’, as he was totally encapsulating and drew the whole audience in. It must be hard towards the beginning of the show as the whole audience is in daylight and close to the stage, whereas these performers are probably used to only being able to see the front row. Despite this, Dannheisser, especially, used it to his advantage and took us all along the journey with him.

All three main daughters were highlights of the show. ‘Matchmaker’ was oozing with charm and their harmonies were to die for. Liv Andrusier was a stand out in the first act as Tzeitel and led the 5 girls really well. Her part was reduced after the interval but I did find myself often watching her in the ensemble. Similarly, Georgia Bruce as Hodel put in a convincing performance and had some wonderful vocals. They blended beautifully with both the other daughters and her muse, Perchik (portrayed effortlessly by Daniel Krikler). Finally, Hannah Bristow gave my favourite performance of the night as Chava. She was captivating and secure in her character and showcased some stunning vocals. The family unit was completely believable, and they all showed care and compassion towards each other like a normal family would do.

The ensemble numbers were staged so well and the choreography from Julia Cheng was amazing, especially packed on such a small stage. All the male dancing, specifically for the wedding, was sublime and they used every inch of the space; the use of tables and chairs added height and depth to the choreography as well. I wish I could talk about every individual performance, as this show really goes all out to showcase each and every talent. Shoutouts to Aideen Malone as Lighting Designer and Nick Lidster as Sound Designer who made some notably great creative choices. The only thing that didn’t work for me was the cast sitting on the stage in the first act. I think it loses its effect when the actors are talking about a character that’s just sat behind them, especially when they shouldn’t be overhearing that specific conversation. I’m unsure why this decision was made as it was easy for the actors to exit the stage at any other time. 

Overall, this production is a reimagined version of such a classic show that can be enjoyed by such a varied audience. The themes are still so recognised in today’s climate and so it is an emotive reminder of how to look at the positives and strive for change.

At Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre until 21 September.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆