Imago Stage Company's 'Fiddler on the Roof': A Heartfelt Performance

L’Chaim! Without traditions, our lives would be shaky - like a fiddler on the roof.

Imago Stage Company presents Fiddler on the Roof, a classic musical set in Russia in the early 20th century. Tevye, a Jewish milkman, navigates the challenges of cultural tradition as his daughters break the arranged marriage system to pursue love. Attacked by anti-Semitic threats, the village’s Jewish community heeds dark uncertainty for their future.

Fiddler on the Roof is a classic story that I have come to love. I had the privilege to attend the compelling final dress rehearsal of Imago Stage Company’s production. I was floored by the cast’s dedication and heartfelt performance. The themes of tradition, family, and change remain as relevant as ever, resonating powerfully.

Danny Marks magnificently portrays Tevye. Tevye is the most important character of Fiddler on the Roof. As the beloved milkman struggling to uphold modern tradition, he has to choose between love and the customs that shaped his life. Marks channeled his own personal experiences, further enriching the character’s resilient attitude.

I will continue to emphasize how no small part exists in theater. Every role in Fiddler on the Roof contributes to the heart of this production.

Michelle Heinze (Tzeitel), Micaiah Jones (Hodel), and Sevan Dulgarian (Chava) shine as Tevye’s daughters, particularly in the iconic song ‘Matchmaker.’ Katie Broach delivers a powerhouse performance as Golde, Teyve’s wife. No matter how much sarcasm they spit at one another, the love between Tevye and Golde is heartwarming.

A special mention goes to Thomas Ostrowski as the timid Motel. Despite reservations, Motel courageously asks Tevye for his blessing to marry Tzeitel. Motel’s leadership reminded me of the quote from the late Maggie Smith, “Speak your mind, even if your voice shakes.”

Sophia Hefner merits honorable applause as the fiddler. Her music captivates the show’s atmosphere and adds a haunting beauty. Speaking of the music, the ensemble’s voices echo beautifully within the acoustics of the Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church. I will forever cherish the rich sound of melodies.

The music for Fiddler on the Roof contains fun songs, conducted with a live orchestra. ‘If I Were a Rich Man’ has become one of my favorite songs! More songs include ‘To Life,’ ‘Miracle of Miracles,’ and the wedding dance in Act 1’s conclusion. Credit goes to choreographers Tennille Hahn and Tess McKinley who signify cultural richness to the show’s dance scenes.

Tess McKinley, who also directed the production, takes the message of change to heart, instilling, “Without (change), we don’t grow or mature.” McKinley executes an honest representation of Jewish culture and creates a lively show with surprises.

The technical elements bring the fictional Anatevka to life through minimal sets, lighting, and period-appropriate costumes. The show opens with a striking shadowed image of the fiddler playing, immediately setting the tone. Minimal sets are used creatively, like a doorway representing a home or a tavern. It’s only a small transition, but it captures the magic of theater.

Audience reaction is the most important part of any show for me. We laughed and fell completely silent when the Russians entered the wedding unannounced and destroyed the place. Even child audience members were aghast at their dispirited destruction.

The message of Fiddler on the Roof is still effective today. While tradition is important, we should be open to change and expand on new ideas and relationships. Although the play ends somberly there’s still a sense of hope. Never let anyone discourage your heritage; be proud.

Attend a performance of Imago Stage Company’s Fiddler on the Roof at Christ Redeemer Anglican Church in Danvers, MA. The show runs November 15-24. It’s funny, heartfelt, and a wonderful theater experience.