A brand new production of one of the greatest musicals in history, Fiddler on the Roof starring Anthony Warlow, will open at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre in December 2015, before playing at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre in March 2016.
Fiddler on the Roof has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences around the world for over 50 years with its humour, warmth and honesty. It follows the heart-warming journey of a family that has its traditional life turned upside down as the modern world starts to impact on life in their idyllic village. Striving to maintain traditions, this classic tale is a celebration of life, love, family and ultimately a story of hope.
Anthony Warlow has spent the last 3 years starring on Broadway playing Daddy Warbucks in Annie and most recently replaced Kelsey Grammar in Finding Neverland. As one of Australian theatre’s leading men, Anthony has starred in many iconic productions including Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, My Fair Lady, Man of La Mancha and Dr Zhivago. He returns to Australia shortly to commence preparations for this new production.
“It has been a quiet passion of mine to one day play the role of Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to bring this coveted role to life in a sensational new production,” said Anthony.
“I have always been moved by the ability of this touching story of father/ daughter relationships and the timeless traditions that define faith and family to carry audiences from laughter to tears in a matter of moments. I look forward to Australian audiences joining me in revisiting this iconic musical.”
Written by Joseph Stein and based on Sholem Aleichem’s short story, ‘Tevye and His Daughters’, Fiddler on the Roof debuted at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway in 1964. It ran for 3,242 shows, becoming the longest-running musical in 1972. The celebrated score by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick, features the songs Tradition, Sunrise Sunset, Matchmaker, To Life, and If I Were A Rich Man.
Winning nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress and Best Director, as well as awards for author, producer, choreographer, costume design and, composer and lyricist, it won another Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical in 1991.
In 1971, the movie version, starring Topol was nominated for Best Picture and picked up three Academy Awards. The show has enjoyed many London and Broadway revivals, the latest opening at the Broadway Theatre this November.
The new Australian production of Fiddler on the Roof is produced by Tim Lawson for The Works Entertainment, (The Illusionists, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, A Chorus Line), and will be directed by Roger Hodgman (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang) and boasts the award winning choreography by Jerome Robbins (West Side Story). Additional casting will be announced at a later date.
“It has always been a privilege to present this iconic musical in Australia” says Tim Lawson. “It has brought so much joy to so many. To team up again with Roger Hodgman, one of the finest directors in the world, and the awe inspiring talent and magnetic personality of Anthony Warlow is a thrill beyond belief. I know this is going to be one of the best productions of the show ever to be seen in the world.”
Fiddler on the Roof plays for 6 weeks only at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from 29 December and Sydney’s Capitol Theatre from 24 March 2016. Tickets go on sale Friday 25 September 2015. For more information, visit: www.fiddlerontherooftour.com for details.
Image: Anthony Warlow (supplied)