When you’re watching the Northwest Savoyards’ new production of “Fiddler on the Roof,” you’ll take note of two outstanding features:
The stunning voice of Tevye.
And the modern, realistic sets inspired by artist Marc Chagall.
Mix these features with a small yet strong supporting cast, a heart-tugging story and a musical backdrop provided by a 15-piece Everett Symphony ensemble and you’ve got a “Fiddler” that’s a far different version than the show the Savoyards did back in 2004.
Different in this case probably means much improved. But “Fiddler’s” theme still plays out: Traditional ways butting up against modern thinking is as relevant today as it ever was, producer Kate Wallington said.
“We are at an age that is so changing,” Wallington said. “Every single day there is some different thing happening. and we ask, ‘How is this going to change my world?’ “
So we relate to Tevye, a poor dairyman who tries to instill in his five daughters the traditions of his tight-knit Jewish community in the face of a changing society.
Tevye tries to marry off his daughters in the old way, using a matchmaker, but his daughters want to marry for love. The story challenges the barriers of race, class, nationality and religion.
Dave Holden delivers Tevye as a lovable character who deserves our pity, Wallington said.
“I like the character very much,” she said. “You’ve met this guy somewhere in your life and you can relate to his dilemmas. He’s got everyday problems.”
Holden used to perform with the San Diego Opera so audiences should be prepared to be bowled over by his voice.
The song “If I Were a Rich Man” is still the show stealer here, but Wallington said she was particularly moved when Holden sang “Chaveleh (Little Bird).”
“It’s such a heartbreaking song and so sad and so loving, and he puts so much into that, that it absolutely tears your heart out,” she said.
The sets here are also different.
When the Savoyards did “Fiddler” before, the show was performed at the Snohomish County Public Utility District where the sets had to be made and rolled on and off stage.
At the Historic Everett Theatre, the sets are flown in from above the stage and will be representational backdrops. Set designer Joy Bezanis of Edmonds has painted modern backdrops using the Marc Chagall painting “The Green Violinist,” which was the original inspiration for “Fiddler.”
“She’s actually based the backdrop on that painting and done it without the Fiddler on it and it is just lovely,” Wallington said. “She’s extremely good.”
Wallington said audiences of all ages will find something to enjoy in this version of “Fiddler,” which can be seen on many different levels while listening to the lovely strains of the Everett Symphony musicians.
“They love to play Broadway,” Wallington said. “And they give us such a brilliant sound.”
Theresa Goffredo: 425-339-3424,
goffredo@heraldnet.com.
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