Fiddler on the Roof at The New Theatre – A Cast That Dances with Heart
“an unforgettable night at the theatre.”
Last night, The New Theatre in Cardiff played host to a heartfelt and energetic rendition of Fiddler on the Roof, one of the most beloved musicals in theatre history. Set in the small Jewish village of Anatevka, the production explores themes of tradition, love, and the painful changes that come with time.
The cast brought these universal themes to life with both passion and nuance.
At the heart of the show is Tevye, the milkman who struggles to balance his deep-rooted faith and his growing sense of the changing world. Matthew Woodyatt’s portrayal of Tevye was nothing short of captivating. From his comedic timing to his emotional depth, Woodyatt’s performance captured the complexity of the character beautifully. His iconic monologues, where he talks to God, were both poignant and funny, providing a perfect balance of levity and pathos. He brought a vulnerability to the role that made his dilemmas all the more relatable. His vocal performance, particularly in If I Were a Rich Man, was rich and full of character, displaying a voice that was both powerful and endearing.
Jodie Jacobs played his wife, Golde, and her strong, commanding presence was a perfect foil to Woodyatt’s Tevye. Jacobs brought warmth and grit to the role, especially in the famous Do You Love Me? scene, where her emotional shift from pragmatic wife to loving partner was a standout moment. She gave the character a grounded sincerity, showing Golde's deep affection for Tevye, even in the absence of overt romanticism.
Beverley Klein’s portrayal of Yente, the matchmaker, added delightful comic relief, as expected, but she also captured a certain depth in Yente’s character. Her sharp wit was a highlight, but there was also a tenderness underneath her meddling exterior, which added an extra layer to what could otherwise have been a one-note character.
Raphael Papo’s Fiddler, though a quiet presence on stage, symbolised the central themes of the show, and his ability to convey the weight of the role through his movements and music was subtle yet effective. The Fiddler is a figure that often feels like a messenger, and Papo’s performance made the character feel essential to the heartbeat of the show. His violin solos added an extra layer of melancholy and beauty, perfectly complementing the village’s struggles.
“Woodyatt’s portrayal of Tevye was nothing short of captivating.”
The three sisters—Tzeitel (Natasha Jules Bernard), Hodel (Georgia Bruce), and Chava (Hannah Bristow)—each brought something special to the stage. Bernard’s Tzeitel was a lively and heartfelt character who captured the conflicted emotions of a woman torn between love and family loyalty. Bruce’s Hodel, in contrast, gave a more mature and independent portrayal, particularly in her relationship with Perchik. Her Far From the Home I Love was a showstopper, filled with raw emotion and longing. Bristow’s Chava, the youngest, delivered a quietly powerful performance, particularly in her relationship with Fyedka, which offered an emotional punch that resonated long after the curtain fell.
Dan Wolff as Motel was endearing and sincere, his shy, awkward energy perfect for the character of the meek tailor who falls in love with Tzeitel. His duet with Bernard in Miracle of Miracles was charming and sweet, offering a much-needed moment of joy amid the weightier themes of the show.
On the other side of the love stories, Greg Bernstein and Gregor Milne delivered strong performances as Perchik and Fyedka, respectively. Bernstein’s Perchik, the revolutionary, had a quiet intensity. Milne’s Fyedka was confident and solid, offering a believable and moving portrayal of a man caught between tradition and his love for Chava.
Michael S. Siegel’s Lazar Wolf, the wealthy butcher, was a highlight in the role of the older suitor to Tzeitel. Siegel brought a mix of humour and pathos to the role, particularly in his dealings with Tevye, making Lazar a character both sympathetic and amusing.
The ensemble cast, including Siôn Lloyd’s Mordcha and the Innkeeper, added to the richness of the world in which these characters lived. Though these roles were smaller, the performers still managed to create moments that felt integral to the community of Anatevka.
Overall, this production of Fiddler on the Roof at The New Theatre in Cardiff delivers strong performances from its main cast, each of whom brings depth and individuality to their roles. The combination of humour, love, and loss is handled with sensitivity and flair, making for an unforgettable night at the theatre.
Grab your tickets to Fiddler on the Roof at The New Theatre here!
