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Review

Fiddler on the Roof, Swanage Musical Theatre Company, Mowlem Theatre, Swanage

SOME of the best ‘home- made’ sets I have seen over the years have been from this society, and this year’s was no exception. It really was worthy of the West End, perfectly representing the poor shtetl of Anatevka where this story of a Russian milkman and his family unfolds.

The production, skilfully directed by Brenda Ridout, was also a winner, with the plot’s humour, approaching menace and pathos brought out in equal measure, and some pretty impressive choreography to boot – I particularly enjoyed the dance sequences in the inn and at the wedding.

The spirited performances really tugged at the heart-strings, from Rob Atkins’ world-weary Tevye, his wife Golde (Roni Merison) and their daughters, the eldest of whom were played by Karen Woolley (Tzeitel), Victoria Jones (Hodel) and Emma Whiting (Chava) to the ‘papas, mamas, sons and daughters’ of the chorus.

There were other marvellous characterisations too, including Stewart Jones (Motel the tailor) and Thomas Parker (Perchik the student), while the dream scene was absolutely superb, thanks in no small measure to Pearl Nash (Grandma Tzeitel) and Catherine Bailey (Fruma-Sarah).

Musically the show – musical director Isabelle Butler - also hit the spot, with a first-rate orchestra and some excellent singing. 

Linda Kirkman

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