** Twenty-four hours after experiencing A.C.T. of Connecticut’s Fiddler on the Roof, my head is still completely occupied with the powerful songs, scenes, and especially the timeless message - Fiddler attendee after Thursday evening's performance **
There are some stories that linger long after the final note is sung, the final spotlight dims, and the final curtain falls. "Fiddler on the Roof" is one of those stories. A timeless masterpiece, this beloved musical has been reimagined by A.C.T. of Connecticut’s Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine in a way that is both deeply personal and strikingly relevant. From the storytelling to the casting, choreography, and powerhouse ensemble, Levine has once again, raised Broadway’s bar. Together with Musical Director Bryan Perri, and Producing Director, Erin Craig, A.C.T. of CT’s Fiddler is anything but predictable—it’s riveting, raw, and profoundly relevant.
Levine created a visually stunning and extremely effective prologue to the show which truly set the tone for what we were about to witness. I have never seen this in any other production of the show and I don’t want to give too much away, but Levine’s 3-minute prologue immediately draws audiences into the story and prepares us for what we are all about to collectively witness. Parts of the performance can be hard to watch (in the best possible way). Levine explores things that can be hard to face, and that we tend not to think about. And, just like life, it can be hard to grasp why and how people can persecute those different from themselves. Levine’s production challenges us to face these difficult moments without forcing any agenda. It is beautifully and cleanly presented through an almost cinematic lens. You forget that you are watching these events unfold right in front of you. That’s the magic of theater. It is also amazing to think about the fact that this level of theater takes place right here in Ridgefield.
Levine’s connection to Jewish culture is deeply personal. “From my family’s escape from the pogroms in Russia to the cherished rituals of Shabbat dinners to the enduring legacy of ‘always remember, never forget,’ these traditions and memories shape my work. They fuel my commitment to honoring the resilience and history of the people you are about to meet.” He adds, “Bearing witness is essential, and that’s a cornerstone of our production.”
The cast doesn’t just play these roles—they inhabit them, breathing life into the Jewish village of Anatevka in Imperial Russia at the turn of the 20th century. They are these people—their struggles, joys, and unshakable spirit made real on stage. The story follows Tevye, a humble milkman, and his family as they navigate faith, love, and the weight of changing societal norms.
Tevye is portrayed by the uber-talented Danny Rothman, a man full of life in every way. Robust, funny, and deeply devoted to his faith and family. Rothman’s Tevye is a man who wrestles with his beliefs, ultimately choosing love over rigid tradition. Alongside him, Jennifer Babiak’s Golde brings warmth, strength, and humor to the role of his steadfast wife. Their five daughters—Tzeitel (Ariella Serur), Hodel (Ruthy Froch), Chava (Skye Gillespie), Shprintze (Sarah Milnamow), and Bielke (Cadence Siriani)—each navigate the delicate balance between honoring their heritage and forging their own paths. And Lori Ada Jaroslow shines as the witty, meddling matchmaker Yente, determined to decide the fates of the young people of Anatevka.
One of the most thrilling moments in "Fiddler" is the unforgettable dream sequence—a scene that feels more like a full-blown nightmare. To heighten its surreal quality, Levine envisioned the use of intricately designed masks and puppets to bring the spirits of the dream to life in a bold and visually stunning way. Renowned artist Norvel Hermanovski was brought in to craft these otherworldly creations, making this scene unlike anything audiences have ever seen before.
Visually, this production is breathtaking. The innovative projections don’t just complement the storytelling; they place the audience inside the village, immersing them in the world of Anatevka as though they are living within it. The dynamic multimedia design, paired with Levine’s innovative direction, creates an experience that is both theatrical and cinematic.
This is theater that doesn’t just entertain—it challenges, provokes, and ultimately transforms. As Levine so eloquently puts it, “I believe you will walk out of our theater different than how you walked in.”
A.C.T. of Connecticut’s "Fiddler on the Roof" runs from February 6 through March 3, 2025. Due to overwhelming demand, an additional performance was just added on Sunday, February 16 at 7 pm. Tickets are available at actofct.org or call 475-215-5497. You can also add your name to the wait list of sold-out performances.