Love London Love Culture’s Emma Clarendon spoke to the actor about starring in the upcoming West End transfer of Trevor Nunn’s production of Fiddler on the Roof.
Hi Dermot, thank you so much for talking to me .How are you feeling about transferring Fiddler on the Roof to the West End? Hello Love London Love Culture, and thank you for inviting me to do an interview with you. I’m very excited about the transfer. We have had a phenomenal sell out run at The Menier Chocolate Factory, and this is a great opportunity to reach a wider audience with this wonderful production. As much as I’d love to stay at the Menier, moving to The Playhouse is going to be terrific.
What would you say makes this production of the musical special to be part of? I can’t put my finger on one particular thing, but the combination of Trevor Nunn’s direction, Matt Cole’s choreography and the whole creative team at the Menier, and with Sonia Friedman Productions, added to that one of the hardest working casts I’ve had the pleasure of being a part of, has all come together to create a truly magical show. I’m so proud to be a part of it.
For those who have yet to see this particular production what can they expect? Well, it’s not your usual West End production, so don’t expect a big glitzy, sparkly show. It’s authentic, and honest, and we’ve created an entire village on stage. You’ll actually think you’re a part of Anatevka. We’re hoping to maintain the intimacy of the Menier, and recreate it at The Playhouse. I can’t tell you how we’re doing it, it’s a surprise, but it’s going to be wonderful.
How have you found working on Fiddler on the Roof so far? To be honest, it has been an absolute joy. Every day has been a pleasure. There’s just something about this show. Andy Nyman is a powerhouse, on and off stage. He’s the lynchpin of this production. And what can you say about Broadway Legend, Judy Kuhn? I get to hear her sing every day. Who wouldn’t love that? And Trevor Nunn is probably the most relaxed director I’ve worked with. I’ve learnt something new from him every day.
What do you think makes this musical such a classic? I honestly don’t think there’s a musical like ‘Fiddler on the Roof’. It has some of the most memorable, and well loved songs. The story is still current, and very relevant today with what is going on in the world. It fills you with joy one moment, and then breaks your heart in the next, but it sends the audience home with a message of hope, determination, and a feeling of community. It’s a real celebration ‘To Life!’
By Emma Clarendon
Fiddler on the Roof will play at the Playhouse Theatre from the 21st March. To book tickets click here or visit: ATG Tickets, Love Theatre.com, Theatre Tickets Direct.co.uk, Encore Tickets, From the Box Office or See Tickets.