Fiddler on the Roof, UK Tour Review (2025)
Written by Mia for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
When revivals come to the stage there is a risk of not being able to retain the heart of a classic whilst breathing new life into it for new audiences. Jordan Fein’s revival of Fiddler on the Roof, which earned an astonishing 13 Oliver Award nominations and won 3, does exactly that. This unforgettable theatrical event reaffirms the musical’s timeless relevance, marrying tradition with innovation in its set and lighting design that enables fans old and new to engage with it wholeheartedly.
Now embarking on a UK tour following two sell-out seasons at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and the Barbican Theatre, this is the perfect time to see one of the most sensational productions currently touring the country.
Based on one of the stories from one of the most famous and beloved Jewish writers, Sholem Aleichem created “Tevye the Dairyman” and other short stories, of which Fiddler on the Roof is based upon. Set in a small Jewish village called Anatevka in the early 20th-century Tsarist Russia, we are introduced to a poor milkman and deeply devoted father of five daughters, Tevye. As he fights to uphold traditional Jewish customs, the world around him is changing rapidly, with each of his daughters deciding to go against the modern expectations of their society.
Aesthetically, this is one of the most beautifully presented musicals ever staged on the scale of a UK tour. Tom Scutt transforms the entire auditorium into a living, breathing structure, cornfields stretching across the space, lifting up to reveal the tight-knit community beneath it. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll notice the Fiddler (Raphael Papo) subtly appearing on the roof at key moments, a quiet yet powerful presence throughout. Scutt’s visionary set is perfectly aligned with Aideen Malone’s striking lighting design and Nick Lidster’s rich, atmospheric sound design, creating a world that feels both intimate and epic - especially when we were in such a large auditorium like the Royal Concert Hall in Nottingham. We also have to mention how Julia Cheng’s choreographic style (known for her work on Cabaret in the West End) is skilled and imaginative, making it perfectly in tune with the tone of this show overall. “Tradition”, which kicks off the musical, is one fantastic example of this creativity.
Then there's this exceptional ensemble, an impressively cohesive cast led by Matthew Woodyatt as Tevye. His natural quick wit is perfectly suited to the role, especially when he blends in and out of the fourth wall, drawing the audience further into Tevye’s world. His rendition of “If I Were A Rich Man” was one of the standouts of the night. Alongside Jodie Jacobs as Golde, they make the perfect match with an obvious, warm and believable chemistry. Beverley Klein’s Matchmaker is absolutely hilarious and lightens up a lot of the more serious tones within Fiddler on the Roof.
It’s worth noting that while the cast delivers a deeply committed performance, the visible lack of diversity in a show so rooted in Jewish identity raises questions. Given the cultural and religious significance of Fiddler on the Roof, it would have been meaningful to know whether any of the cast identify as Jewish, especially in a time where authentic representation continues to matter. This musical remains an urgent, resonant story. It’s a powerful and unforgettable theatrical experience that will leave you wanting more.
Fiddler on the Roof is embarking on a UK tour until 3 January 2026
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
