One of the most timeless and well-loved musicals is “Fiddler on the Roof,” the story of Tevye the dairyman, in czarist Russia at the turn of the 20th century reminding us of the enduring power of family, faith, and resilience in the face of change...

Severance is the core of this production, bar none. He has portrayed the dairyman in eight previous productions, and it shows. His Tevye has a genuine human quality with a touch of whimsy and humor. His rendition of iconic songs like "If I Were a Rich Man" and "Tradition" resonates with warm sincerity.

As Tevye's wife, Golde, Towle is perfectly matched. She’s mindful of her traditional place in the family but driven by a strong independent streak. The spouses bickering and banter feel authentic, showcasing a long-lasting marriage built on love and respect. Their number, “Do You Love Me?” is among the most charming in the show.

The love pairings are truly well cast. Scott and Hanley are wonderfully innocent and wide eyed in their naturally found love. Hanley shines in “Miracle of Miracles” and you just feel the connection between the two actors. A wonderful choice was to include Hanely in the vigorous dance numbers at the couple’s wedding including the iconic bottle dance perfectly balancing liquor bottles on their heads while performing Russian inspired dance steps. Hanely holds a bachelor’s degree in dance, and it is a brilliant move to put aside casting conventions to defer to using skills where they shine best.

Not to be outdone is daughter Hodel’s relationship with Perchik. Brunelle’s vocals soar in the reflective, “Far from the Home I Love,” while Foley brings a folksy contemporary sound to his number, “Now I Have Everything.”

And in the final pairing, Ellis and McPherson bring a tender love story to a relationship that breaks the bounds of tradition...

And the curtain call was emotionally moving as the entire cast appeared on stage at once with a group bow led by Tevye with a handheld over his heart and a sweeping gesture from everyone for the bow. Very simple, well done and heartwarming.  

The Rochester Opera House keeps its tradition of exceptional productions with this wonderfully entertaining performance of “Fiddler on the Roof.” It is not to be missed.