REVIEW: Magic of Broadway classic Fiddler on the Roof retained at Wycombe Swan

Fiddler on the Roof is equal parts hilarious, heartwarming, and heartbreaking – and it's understandable how the production won Best Musical Revival at this year’s Olivier Awards.

On its first tour in over a decade, the musical is not one to miss and is guaranteed to tug on the heartstrings of the audience members.

At its heart, the show is about the Jewish milkman, Tevye, who carries the weight of his faith, his family, and his proud traditions in a rapidly changing world.

It’s 1905 in the tiny village of Anatevka, and his five daughters await a visit from the matchmaker.

As each daughter tests Tevye’s sanity in creative new ways, Tevye struggles between holding on to his roots and learning to embrace the unfamiliar at the will of his children.

The hauntingly beautiful melodies, including ‘Sunrise, Sunset’ and ‘Far From the Home I Love’, capture the difficulties of watching time slip away without notice as children grow older.

While the catchy and more humorous numbers – such as crowd pleasers ‘Tradition’ and ‘If I Were A Rich Man’ – are likely to replay in your head for days after.

The breathtaking bottle-dancing sequence, featuring men balancing glass bottles while doing squats, also deserves special mention for being a memorable interlude.

The minimal props, coupled with the evocative wheat fields on set, complement the dynamism of the ensemble cast, including Matthew Woodyatt as Tevye and Jodie Jacobs as his wife, Golde.

Tevye’s constant dialogue with God is both funny and heartbreaking. Reaching the final scene, the audience may feel the musical has become a mirror – reflecting the endurance of the human spirit.

The brisk pacing symbolises the increasing divisions in a shifting world, and the complexities of holding on to tradition while embracing change.

Fiddler on the Roof stays with you long after the fiddler’s last notes fade away and retains all the magic of the Broadway classic during its Wycombe Swan run.

The toe-tapping songs and excellent cast received a standing ovation on opening night.

Fiddler on the Roof plays at the Wycombe Swan until Saturday, September 20.