A Triumphant Revival

Best bit? The performance of Adam Kantor as the tailor Motel is grounded and sincere, and undoubtedly crafted with care. He shines during his solo "Miracle of Miracles".

Any boring bits? While I personally thought Burstein could've given more I respect that he made the choice to be less animated. A choice that may have been made to suit a modern audience who craves more than a surface performance. Sadly, the chemistry between him and Golde (Jessica Hecht) was also lacking.

Who would like it? As a classic American musical, audiences will appreciate the song and dance element of this show while enjoying a story of substance, rich with history.

Who wouldn't like it? Many people will hear what this story is about and steer clear due to its 'gloomy' nature; however, the music is magnificent and you feel such life and love throughout the show.

Morning after effect: I am trying to perfect my 'jiggle': A movement where one throws her hands up and shakes the shoulders. While 'jiggle' is not the official term it describes the motion quite literally.

Verdict: Four out of five

On November 20th the Broadway Theatre stage was transformed into Anatevka, a Russian-Jewish village set in the early 20th century. It provides the setting for the classic American musical Fiddler on The Roof, which celebrates its 50th Anniversary with this brand revival from Bartlett Sherr (director) and Hofesh Shechter (choreographer).

Fiddler on The Roof is a difficult story to tell as it bears a responsibility to remain true and sensitive to its historical context. Tevye, played by Danny Burstein (five time Tony nominee), explores the challenges of change, family and faith. As Tevye's family and The Villagers experience the impending threat of the Tsar, the audience witness emotional transitions which are big, and the pace of the show shifts gears at a rapid rate. Ted Sperling does an outstanding job as musical director as the songs are crucial to telling the story, while Shechter's brilliant choreography embodies it through dance. The movement is dynamic in its traditional form with a perfect touch of contemporary edge.

Sher's work has received incredible acclaim and several Tony nominations, as well as a 2015 Tony Award win for his revival of The King and I. His trusted and talented team from South Pacific and The King and I are clearly his perfect match. Michael Yeargan's stark scenic design sets the tone emphatically, we naturally wish Tevye and his family had more yet fall in love with the simplicity of their lives, the lighting by Donald Holder fills all the right gaps. Costume designer Catherine Zuber paid close attention to the movement of the show, as every shirt twirls perfectly and coat flairs on cue.

The original Fiddler on The Roof held the record for longest-running Broadway musical for ten years, until Greece surpassed it. The production was extremely profitable and won nine Tony Awards. With four Broadway revivals (1976, 1981, 1990, and 2004), and a film adaptation (1971) the story has become a family favorite for many, and some might say a "Tradition".

Eleven years later and in its fifth revival Fiddler on The Roof is a great example of how imperative story is. It captures a slice of time and reminds us that we must relish in the freedom we have, challenge the restrictions and prejudices on others, and embrace our differences. Today and Always. "To Life!"

Reviewed by Nicola Quinn

Wednesday 16th December 2015
Broadway Theater, New York City
Find me on Twitter: @newyorktheatre

View our show pages for more information about Fiddler on the Roof, Broadway Theater.