The famed musical returns to its roots with a Yiddish off-Broadway production at Stage 42.
Directed by Tony Award winner Joel Grey and filled with hits like “Sunrise, Sunset” and “If I Were a Rich Man,” Fiddler on the Roof wows in an intimate production that truly brings the story to life. The minimal stage lends itself beautifully as a backdrop to the outstanding ensemble performances.
The iconic musical tells the story of a Jewish couple, Tevye (Steven Skybell) and Golde (Jennifer Babiak), who come to terms with their eldest daughters Tsatyl (Rachel Zatcoff), Hodl (Stephanie Lynne Mason), and Khave (Rosie Jo Neddy) finding suitors. A mix of old tradition and new ideals, the tale couples a romance and comedy against the backdrop of a pre-revolutionary Russia.
Steven Skybell shines as patriarch Tevye and his endearingly charismatic portrayal brings the real heart to the production. It is Tevye’s determination and empathy that drives the story; he is the loving father that guides his daughters through the stifling matchmaking process while grappling with honoring cultural traditions.
Steven Skybell as Tevye
Rachel Zatcoff’s emotive performance makes for a perfect Tsatyl, her kindness onstage reminiscent of any older sister. Stephanie Lynne Mason and Rosie Jo Neddy also perfectly inhabit their respective roles– with Mason’s rebellious curiosity and Neddy’s shy intellect adding layers to Hodl and Khave, respectively.
The casting overall truly made the show one of this year’s best, from the Rabbi Der Rov (Adam B. Shapiro) to butcher Leyzer-Volf (Bruce Sabath) and matchmaker Yente (Jackie Hoffman).
While the all-Yiddish production may seem daunting at first, the projected English subtitles seamlessly integrate into the show, and the authentic Yiddish language adds a beautiful rhythm to each song.
Fiddler on the Roof is a must-see show, a classic story reimagined.
The show closes January 5th, 2020. For more information, please visit https://fiddlernyc.com.
