Sacramento's Music Circus season winds to a close next week with Jesus Christ Superstar, but this week theatre-goers are treated to a long-time favorite as Fiddler on the Roof makes its ninth appearance under the tent, last appearing in 1992.While Fiddler is a time-honored favorite, this year's crowd seemed a little less that enthusiastic as the production started, undoubtedly due to the 100 degree plus weather outside the tent for its opening performance on Monday.
They soon "warmed" up to the show, however, as the talented cast paraded out all the hit songs from Fiddler, including "Tradition," "Matchmaker, Matchmaker," "If I Were A Rich Man," and "Sunrise, Sunset."
Fiddler on the Roof easily has one of the most recognizable collections of songs of any musical that has graced the Sacramento stage. It is the tale of a poor jewish man and his family living in Russia at the turn of the century and the trials and tribulations he faces as he tries to keep to his traditional values with the world changing around him.
Music Circus favorite Lenny Wolpe, with credits ranging from The Pirates of Penzance to The Wizard of Oz, was cast in the role of Tevye, with a strong supporting cast around him. Wolpe's easy-going manner and strong voice made for a perfect Tevye and he did the bulk of the work in making the show what it was.
Fiddler on the Roof runs through Sunday with performances nightly at 8 p.m, except Sunday's which has an early 7:30 p.m. start. Reviewed by Joe Blenkle
Eric Kunze will portray Jesus in his first Music Circus appearance. Kunze's credits include the Broadway productions of Miss Saigon, Les Miserables, and Damn Yankees. Judy McLane, who appeared at Music Circus in 1990 in Chess and its return performance in 1992 will also appear and Lawrence Clayton will play Judas.
Jesus Christ Superstar runs Monday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $19-$35 and are available at the Music Circus box office, 1419 H St., Sacramento, or by calling (916) 557-1999 or (916) 923-BASS.