Stages "Fiddler" Could Use More Heart

Stages is all about doing the best-loved Broadway shows. And they always do exceptional work. "Fiddler on the Roof" is a favorite production of that ilk.  It has been revived four times on Broadway since it originally opened in 1964. It is a show that's all about family values and struggles, endearing themes everywhere.

Photo courtesy of Stages

In Stage's "Fiddler," Bruce Sabath stars a Tevye, a poor dairyman in the small Russian village of Anatevka. The time is 1905. His life is a daily ritual of pulling his cart to make a living and support his wife Golde, played nicely by Kari Ely, and provide for the future of his young daughters, which includes finding them suitable husbands. Traditionally, Tevye is a man with a large heart and even larger girth. Sabath is a man of average build, and his portrayal seems to lack the right warm-fuzzy quality of geniality. He sings the part well but too often he seemed to be gliding through the production without much emotional traction.

Photo courtesy of Stages

The score of "Fiddler" is one for the ages, and Stages does it proud. "Tradition," "If I Were a Rich Man," "Sunrise, Sunset" and many others all brush the heart with a familiar and loving touch.

Photo courtesy of Stages

The supporting cast, especially Steve Isom, Whit Reichert and Steve Pisarkiewicz are excellent. The production quality is mildly muted and apropos to the tone of the story. Most Stages audiences will bask nicely in the glow of "Fiddler's" cozy veneer. It runs through October 5th.