Bock and Harnick's enduring Russo-Yiddish musical is back at the Gaiety in a heart-warming presentation by the Rathmines & Rathgar Musical Society, which is celebrating its 85th anniversary this year. Noel McDonough's tautly-directed staging, abetted by Rita Kealy's rumbustious dance movement, is a perfect example of how a well-executed traditional approach can make even a 34-year-old show sparkle anew.
Gary Montaine bestrides the production as Tevye, the milkman who converses, Don Camillo-like, with his God. His range of dynamics in both speaking and singing is impressive and his timing is splendid. He is ideally partnered by Siobhan Fawsitt as his wife, Golde. Her sympathetic playing and warm singing voice enhance the stature of this role enormously.
Indeed, there isn't a weak link in the big cast, not even in the smallest parts. The juveniles are thoroughly credible and the meaty older characters are strongly cast with seasoned players like Patricia Hough as Yente the matchmaker, Brendan Hughes as Lazar Wolf the butcher, and Maurice O'Sullivan as the Constable.
Alert stage-management ensures that the well-executed scenic elements are shifted about fluently and the show is beautifully lit. It's a long evening, but the smooth production, allied to Gearoid Grant's assured pacing of the music, keeps interest alive right to the bitter-sweet end.
Fiddler on the Roof continues at the Gaiety until Saturday, November 7th. Booking: 01-6771717
