Fiddler on the Roof at Altria Theater is a masterfully staged retelling of an ever-relevant classic. The show follows Tevye, a Jewish dairyman, and his family, who live in the village of Anatevka. As Jews in Imperial Russia, they live as precariously as a fiddler on the roof, navigating courtship, marriage, and gossip under the constant threat of anti-semitic violence.
On opening night, Danny Arnold shone as Tevye, bringing as much depth as he does mirth to a character as compelling as the wealthy, scholarly men he imagines for his daughters. Classics like “If I Were a Rich Man” brought down the house, but, with his rich baritone, every song that featured his voice was a joy.
The three eldest of Tevye’s daughters, Tzeitel, Hodel, and Chava, portrayed by Kelly Gabrielle Murphy, Ruthy Froch, and Noa Luz Barenblat, respectively, each offer a stunning singing voice and believable characterization of a uniquely strong young woman. Owing to the strength of these performances, this rendition of Fiddler centers the young daughters, granting the heart-wrenching storylines that much more weight.
But perhaps the most touching moment came after curtain call, when Arnold dedicated the performance to the Ukrainian people. Fiddler on the Roof is playing through Sunday at Altria Theater through Sunday, April 10. For tickets and showtimes, go here.
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Read more about Broadway in Richmond’s latest production of Fiddler on the Roof in Just Joan.
Important Notice: Broadway in Richmond is no longer requiring proof of vaccine or a negative test for entry but is encouraging wearing of masks for all patrons, both vaccinated and unvaccinated. Children under two years old will not be admitted to Broadway in Richmond performances.
