REVIEW: Encore's "Fiddler" a Summertime Treat for Audiences

Originally premiering on Broadway in 1964 and constantly revived since then, the classic musical Fiddler on the Roof has rightfully earned its place as an audience favorite.

Based on the writings of Sholem Aleichem, the story revolves around Tevye, a poor but good-hearted milkman who lives with his family in a small Jewish town in Czarist Russia. The issues of tradition and family values, not to mention a delightfully tuneful score, are undoubtedly among the reasons for its longevity. The in Dexter currently features an enjoyable staging by director Barbara F. Cullen, playing through Aug. 12.

A production of Fiddler is only as strong as its Tevye, on whose shoulders the entire show sits. Stephen West, who has worked professionally in both musical theater and in opera, proves himself more than up to the task. He easily makes the part his own, endearing himself to the audience by skillfully balancing comedy with equal parts tenderness.

His booming baritone voice blends well with the score, never threatening to overpower it. He is matched vocally by Marlene Inman-Reilly in her role as Tevye's wife, Golde. Their onstage chemistry aids in the effectiveness of their duet in the second act.

Katherine Kujala and Clare Lauer showcase pretty voices and give strong characterizations of the two eldest daughters, Tzeitel and Hodel. Kujala, however, has an odd habit of looking into the house when she's onstage, something which proves distracting.

As the rebellious Chava, Hannah Clague is given the chance to show off an impressive emotional range, convincingly going from coy and flirtatious to emotionally devastated. The two youngest daughters, Shprintze and Bielke (Maeve Donovan and Talia Akiva/Sienne Blazevski) aren't given as much to do, but make the most of their time on stage.

Among the male cast, John Hummell makes for a likeable tailor Motel, whereas Sebastian Gerstner is enthusiastic and fiery as the revolutionary Perchik. Featured dancers Jesse Barfield (also cast as Chava's paramour, Fyedka), Mickey Erickson, and Peter Kentes are ensemble standouts as they skillfully grapple with the challenging choreography. And in a small but effective role, Jeremy Salvatori is quietly commanding as the piece's only perceived villain, the Constable.

The set designed by Toni Auletti works well as the backdrop for a variety of locales, and the costumes by Sharon Larkey Urick seem authentic, if a trifle pristine. But overall, this is genuine family entertainment, and a surefire way to beat the summer heat.

Performances of Fiddler on the Roof run Thursdays through Sundays until Aug. 12. Show times are Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 3 p.m.. For tickets call 734-268-6200 or visit www.theencoretheatre.org.