Review Fiddler on the Roof at The Alex
Wow what a night! I think I might of watched a bit of the original 1970’s film when I was little as it was on over holidays and Christmas time and I knew a few songs. However I couldn’t really remember much detail and I was really glad that I watched this fab show with fresh eyes as it was a pure vision of joy with song, dance and the most heart felt acting that I’ve ever seen!
Mathew Woodyatt as Tevye had big boots to fill and he filed them magnificently, he owned the stage with his very physical presence, amazing voice and he gave absolute 110% of every line he delivered- outstanding!
Jodie Jacobs was perfection as Golde, she embodied the roll with such passion, emotion and most importantly fabulous comedy timing. She supports Tevye through everything and is always a voice of reason, most of the time. Golde is in one of my most favourite scenes with the song ”Do you love me?” that Tevye sings to her, it’s so delicate and full of love but so simplistic in it’s delivery, it’s so touching.
Tevye and Golde have daughters that all need a marriage, a good marriage, a prosperous marriage as they are poor with no dowry to give. The match maker Yente acted by the sublime Beverley Klein sets about to do her business with the oldest of the daughters Tzeitel to the local butcher. The butcher is a widow and is considerably older than Tzeitel but she has her heart with someone else, which isn’t tradition. Hodel had dreams of perhaps marrying the Rabi’s son but her head is turned by Perchik, who is embracing the new ways and not following tradition. Chava meets someone that is not of her faith and this causes her turmoil and conflict with her family as this isn’t tradition.
The whole cast are amazing and it was interesting that the assemble stayed on stage as it added to the effect of village life. The fiddler (Roman Lytwyniw) moves around the stage enhancing the scenes with his energetic playing and setting the atmosphere. Having the band playing their instruments at the back of the stage added an extra dimension to the show.
Go and watch this foot stomping show as it’s so uplifting, it has real depth of love, devotion and depicts a caring family life. The family know life is changing and the old ways and tradition are not as valued as they once were but their strength of character and open mindfulness will help them prevail.
Bravo everyone involved- 5 shining stars
Book your tickets HERE
On until Sat 3 Jan 2026
