REVIEW: Popular “Fiddler” finds welcome audience at UFOC
“Fiddler on the Roof” is one of those productions that seems to never fail to please, that will continue to find commonality with the audience and often is able to mine fields of talent for gold.
And while it seems every Tevye is a great Tevye, mark down William Theisen as one of the best. The Utah Festival Opera production of “Fiddler on the Roof” will likely be its most popular production of the summer and that honor will be well-earned.
While the story and music is no surprise to most of the audience, “Fiddler” was pleasing on all turns (except for the fire alarm that went off opening night, but that’s another story). Costuming was wonderful, backdrops and scenic design breathtaking and functional, and lighting without flaw. But as Tevye goes, so goes “Fiddler.”
Theisen is particularly endearing to the audience when he has his conversations with God and in the way he uses body language toward other cast members. Theisen does not over-deliberate his solo “on the other hand” self-examinations, but keeps the production moving with almost perfect timing.
As Perchik, the student who comes to town only to fall in love with one of Tevye’s daughters, Christopher Holloway is also in character and excellent voice right from his first step on stage. His voice is strong and rich and never feels strained or pained. Lazar Wolf, the Butcher (Theodore Weiss) is also a pleasure to listen to and has no problem filling the theatre.
The dream sequence — perhaps “nightmare” is a better word — when Teyve reveals that his daughter cannot marry the butcher, must be seen to be fully appreciated. Dramatic in size and volume, set designers and other technical supporters of the production must receive a strong pat on the back for pulling it off so well.
It was also fun to watch Eric VanTeilen, a USU graduate and veteran of several USU and Old Lyric productions, take on several roles in “Fiddler.” He plays Fyedka, a Russian soldier, but also assists — in a different costume — as one of the bottle dancers in that well-received production number during an ensemble scene.
Simeon Esper is a strong presence and voice once again as Motel, the tailor, eventually a son-in-law to our hero Tevye.
Yes, life is tenuous, sometimes a balancing act, like a “Fiddler on the Roof.” But with this UFOC production, you’ll be on firm footing.