Last night, a group of A.C.T. of Connecticut’s most devoted supporters had the rare opportunity to step inside the creative process during a working rehearsal of the theater’s much-anticipated production of Fiddler on the Roof. Directed by Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine and featuring the music direction of Bryan Perri, this unique rendition of the timeless musical promises to be an unforgettable exploration of storytelling, culture, and history.
A Story That Hits Close to Home
“This is my story. I feel very, very connected to it, and very, very personal,” Levine fought back tears as he addressed the attendees. As the grandson of Russian immigrants and a Jewish person who grew up immersed in the teachings of remembrance, Levine’s connection to Fiddler on the Roof is deeply rooted in his family’s history.
“In Hebrew school, we’re taught to always remember to never forget. The moment we stop remembering, atrocities can happen again. Bearing witness is essential and creates a responsibility, and that’s a cornerstone of our production.”
Levine’s one-of-a-kind approach underscores this ethos. Throughout the performance, the entire cast of 25 remains on stage, symbolizing collective witnessing. Even when not directly involved in a scene, the actors—seated on scenically designed risers—serve as silent observers, embodying the ever-present weight of history.
Levine says, "This artistic choice highlights the interconnectedness of the characters’ lives and their shared experiences, reflecting the communal struggles and triumphs of Anatevka. By keeping the cast visible, we emphasize that each individual’s story is part of a larger narrative. The village’s collective memory and resilience take center stage, amplifying the universal themes of tradition, change, and survival. My hope is that this artistic choice also invites the audience to engage more deeply, fostering a sense of solidarity and shared responsibility for these timeless stories."
Innovative Vision Meets Timeless Tradition
Fiddler on the Roof traditionally opens with the iconic number, “Tradition.” However, Levine’s vision offers something bold—a prologue that sets the stage in a deeply emotional and meaningful way before the familiar song begins.
“I didn’t want to simply restage the original Broadway production,” Levine explained. “This is a story that my family has lived, and I wanted to bring that intimacy and authenticity to every moment.”
Original Choreography with Cultural Roots
Collaborating with choreographer Josh Assor, Levine ensured the movements in this production evoke the emotional core of Jewish culture while reimagining some of the classic choreography originally created by Jerome Robbins. The result is a dance language that feels rooted in tradition yet fresh and dynamic.
Music That Speaks to the Soul
Under the music direction of Music Supervisor Bryan Perri, A.C.T.’s 11-piece orchestra provides the evocative soundtrack that breathes life into the village of Anatevka. Songs like “Tradition” and “Miracles of Miracles,” previewed during last night’s rehearsal, moved both cast and audience members alike.
“There have been a lot of tears during our rehearsal period,” Levine confessed, highlighting the emotional gravity of the material. “We don’t shy away from the darker parts of the story. That’s where the truth lives.”
A Production to Remember
Set in the small Jewish village of Anatevka in Imperial Russia at the turn of the 20th century, Fiddler on the Roof is a story of faith, family, and the struggle to balance tradition with change. Through Levine’s innovative direction and A.C.T.’s exceptional cast, this production will not only honor the original but also challenge audiences to reflect on their own role in bearing witness to history.
ACT of Connecticut’s Fiddler on the Roof opens on February 6 and runs through March 9, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to experience this reimagined masterpiece that promises to resonate with audiences long after the curtain falls.
Purchase tickets https://www.actofct.org/fiddler-on-the-roof
*This image was taken during a working rehearsal of Fiddler on the Roof