The move to the Playhouse Theatre was a great move for this show. Although the intimacy of the Menier worked, this production really benefits from having a bit more space. The Playhouse Theatre is by no means large - in fact, it’s pretty tiny and intimate - but that extra little bit of space has just given this production room to breathe which really helps it come alive.
Nyman was excellent at the Menier, but he was even better this time, and he was properly singing, not just speak-singing. I think that this was because the intimacy and proximity in the Menier can somewhat suffocate and dull big characters and performances. And with a big personality such as Tevye, combined with a big voice, that needs a little more space to truly come into its own. The Playhouse provides this whilst also proving intimacy and allowing a real connection with the audience. Again, I wanted to give Nyman a hug and he truly stole the show.
Judy Kuhn was a brilliant Golde, and I’m glad that I got to see her before she left. Everyone else was also brilliant, and performances seemed to have flourished and grown; partly, I think, from familiarity, but I also truly think that having a little more space has allowed people to experiment and play with characters, scenes etc. a bit more.
Last time I said that I wouldn’t rush back to see this show, but I think that I might have been converted - I’d be very happy to see this show again. And I think that anyone who does see this show will find that it rings true and, at times, hits a little too close to home.