Theatre Review: Fiddler on the Roof at the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham
AD: This Press Night Review refers to the 2025 Touring Production of Fiddler on the Roof at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham*
It’s become tradition to have a big musical show at the Alexandra Theatre over the festive period, and this year’s offering is the critically acclaimed Fiddler On The Roof. Winner of three Olivier Awards in 2025, including Best Musical Revival, this latest production opened at the Regents Park Open Air Theatre and is now in Birmingham to conclude its nationwide tour. And it’s a strong finish to 2025 at the Alex, saving the best til last.
Embarrassing theatre fan disclaimer: I’ve never actually seen Fiddler On The Roof, neither on stage nor the 1971 film. Nor am I particularly familiar with the score, apart from “Matchmaker” and “If I Were A Rich Man”. So I’m excited to see this with no expectations. What unfolds is an exceptional show with rich storytelling and emotion.
“When a poor man eats a chicken, one of them is sick”
Based on a set of short stories by Sholem Aleichem, Fiddler on the Roof is set in Anatevka, a fictional village in Imperial Russia. The story centres on Teyve, a Jewish milkman trying to uphold traditional customs whilst the modern world shifts around him. As a devoted father of five daughters he is under pressure to ensure that each of them marry well. But his eldest three daughters each have their own idea of the perfect love story, testing Teyve’s faith and patience along the way.
Joseph Stein’s book portrays the heart and soul of this family man, with sentiment, poignancy and a good deal of unexpected humour. Despite being written 60 years ago, and set in the early 20th century, this is a story that still resonates today. Rising political tension between the Russians and the Jewish community provide the backdrop to the story. People are forced to leave their homes and communities are scattered. This moving production brims with heartbreak and humour whilst exploring themes of resilience and family.
Jordan Fein has created a theatrical masterclass, with beautiful staging and masterful storytelling. Every detail is carefully crafted, and every inch of the Alexandra’s stage is utilised thanks to set designer Tom Scutt. Once the safety curtain lifts – always a hint that there is something exciting beyond – we’re greeted by a countryside scene. A grain field lifts to form the titular roof. This is used to great effect, particularly when the roof is once again lowered to form the traditional wedding canopy.
“For a woman who’s dead 30 years, she looked very good”
The energy builds from the opening number “Tradition” culminating in an emotional and heartpounding climax to Act One. Julia Cheng’s choreography is exquisite. The “bottle dance” during the wedding scene was particularly impressive and flawlessly executed but all of the movements onstage are mesmerising.
The entire cast shines but of course it is only right to mention the principal actors. Matthew Woodyatt is outstanding in the leading role. He commands the stage, engages with the audience, and has a believable on-stage chemistry with Jodie Jacobs as sharp-tongued wife Golde. Woodyatt also displays natural wit alongside flawless vocals.
Jacobs portrays Golde with warmth and love. Each of the eldest daughters are brilliantly brought to life in the song “Matchmaker”. Playfulness and hope transform into pragmatism and acceptance of the harsh realities of their world. Bernard gives a powerhouse performance, especially during the spectacular “Tevye’s Dream“.
The tiular fiddler (Roman Lytwyniw) is a symbol of resilience, playing tunes of hope during times of turmoil and chaos. He is a subtle but powerful presence throughout. An onstage orchestra are largely unseen but they provide a beautiful accompaniment to the singers.
“You want hair, marry a monkey”
Despite being largely unaware of the musical numbers beforehand, I could immediately see why this is a classic soundtrack. Apart from the big-hitters which come early in Act One, the raucous “To Life” and the sweet duet between Teyve and Golde “Do You Love Me?” were standout numbers.
The team behind Fiddler on the Roof have created a beautiful revival, retaining all of the storytelling through song, dance and dialogue yet ensuring that it feels fresh. There are no forced accents, the cast are allowed to perform the words from the heart. I’m looking forward to seeing the Fein/Scutt combo again over Christmas at Into the Woods at the Bridge Theatre, London.
Thought-provoking and thoroughly entertaining, Fiddler on the Roof is unmissable. I’m off to see if I can find the film to watch over the Christmas break and create myself a new, well, “Tradition“.
Fiddler on the Roof is at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham until Saturday 3rd January 2026. Purchase your tickets here.
Production images by Johan Persson/Marc Brenner
*Why is this post marked AD? I was invited to attend Press Night in exchange for an honest review. You can trust that I will always be honest and truthful on A Brummie Home and Abroad, and being an invited guest will not influence my opinion in any way.
