Review: Fiddler on the Roof

Review: Fiddler on the Roof | The Stampede Troupe | Greeley, CO | Curtain Up! | Gina Robertson

The Stampede Troupe’s production of Fiddler on the Roof is a delicious treat for the eyes and ears, bringing this beloved classic to Greeley’s UNC Campus Commons Performance Hall through August 16. Opening to an enthusiastic crowd last Friday, the show brought musical precision, emotional depth, and striking visuals to this story that deftly balances comedy and tragedy against the backdrop of a small Jewish village in tsarist Russia.

Keira Bowman; Photo Credit: Jonathan Turner

Based on Sholem Aleichem’s story “Tevye’s Daughters,” Fiddler on the Roof was first produced in 1964 at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway. At its heart is Tevye, a poor dairyman with five daughters whose commitment to tradition increasingly clashes with his warm-hearted willingness to accept change for the sake of their happiness. Meanwhile, political unrest and antisemitic pogroms threaten the security of the entire village, ultimately forcing the villagers from their homes.

Scot Gagnon anchors the production as Tevye, and the twinkle in his eye makes it clear how much fun he’s having with the role. That sense of joy is infectious; no one can resist having a good time right along with him. Kim Lancaster as Golde is his perfect match. Together they provide an intimate window into the rhythms, tensions, and affections of this close-knit community full of memorable characters.

Scot Gagnon and Nicole Harwell; Photo Credit: Jonathan Turner

The three eldest daughters do not appear as distinct from one another as they might be, but each gets her moment to shine. Chava’s (Savana Long) voice is remarkable, while Tessa Espinosa brings some delightful personality to Tzeitel, the eldest sister, especially when she’s teasing the younger ones.

Several scenes are breathtakingly staged, with credit to director Peter F. Muller and Choreographer Amanda Meltzer. From the nimble dancers of “To Life” to the dashing bottle dancers in black, the performers are remarkably synchronized and fully committed. The saloon scene is nicely done like a 3D piece of art, while the dreamlike sequence in which Tevye’s heart breaks as Chava dances in the sunset is painfully beautiful.

Duard Headley and Savana Long; Photo Credit: Jonathan Turner

Yente (Michelle Jeffres) and the rabbi (Charles Rosales) are delightful little scene stealers with their supersized wit. The entire cast does justice to what may be the show’s most famous comic sequence, with Krista Dixon’s Frumah-Sarah making a particularly memorable impression.

The pit orchestra, conducted by Muller, provides vital emotional charge to every dramatic scene as well as lively dance tempos. From the lower rows of the house, however, the orchestra can overpower dialogue at times, making some of the actors difficult to hear. It is a small but noticeable balance issue in an otherwise impressive production.

Overall, the Stampede Troupe’s Fiddler on the Roof is a vibrant, affectionate and visually arresting production. It captures both the exuberance and the heartbreak of a community caught between tradition and change while reminding us why this 60-year-old musical continues to resonate.

For information and tickets: https://www.stampedetroupe.com/fiddler-on-the-roof