Character Descriptions

Tevye is the heart and conscience of Fiddler on the Roof SR. Tevye should be able to show the wide range of conflict, joy and pain that this character feels throughout the story. Your actor needs to be comfortable speaking directly to the audience and must develop a comfortable rapport with them. He does not need to have a great singing voice, but he must have a strong, easily projected voice that can fill your performance space.

Golde is the backbone of the family. She has a rather gruff exterior, but in her heart is sheer dedication to her family. When casting Golde, remember that she must be able to manage Tevye. She runs the household, and must be able to keep Tevye's more emotional side in check. Conversely, she should be able to show a softer side when dealing with Chava and Tevye's rift.

Tzeitel is the oldest daughter of Tevye and Golde. She is the first to challenge the traditions of Anatevka by pleading with her fateher to let her marry Motel the tailor, to whom she has pledged her love. Keep in mind that she is the oldest daughter, is determined and can manipulate her father. This is the perfect spot for a dramatic actress.

Hodel is a strong, independent middle child. She is outspoken but respectful. She has her eye on the Rabbi's son at the outset of the story, but she is charmed by the revolutionary Perchik the moment she meets him, though she may not show it right away. Her dedication and love is real as she follows him to Siberia. Cast an excellent singer and actor as Hodel.

Shprintze and Bielke are the youngest daughters of Tevye and Golde. They only have a few lines but are featured in quite a few scenes. They don't need to be strong singers or actresses but should be confident onstage.

Shprintze and Bielke are the youngest daughters of Tevye and Golde. They only have a few lines but are featured in quite a few scenes. They don't need to be strong singers or actresses but should be confident onstage.

Yente is the middle-aged widow who matches up the young people of the village in hopes that they will marry. She is a village busybody and knows all the news of the town.

Motel is the poor, young tailor who is charmed with Tzeitel. He is an endearing type. He doesn't have to be a great singer but requires a sensitive and nervous, yet lovable portrayal.

Perchik is a young student who brings with him radical new ideas that challenge the traditions of the community. Perchik should be able to hold his own with Tevye. He is a strong character, and clashes with Tevye idealistically, but is likable, charming and ultimately becomes a loyal family member.

Fyedka is a strong, young, Russian soldier who falls in love with Chava. This is a great role for a strong, non-singing actor.

Lazar Wolf is a butcher, the town's wealthiest citizen and is the same age as, if not older, than, Tevye. Lazar must appear rather distasteful and feisty, which is why Tzeitel is frightened to marry him. Lazar is one of the featured singers.

The Russian Soldiers are under the command of the Constable. These are perfect roles for performers who have had little or no experience. Sasha has two short lines, and all the Russians sing together.

The constable is the local sheriff representing the Russian government. Cast an actor who can provide a sense of threat and conflict. The constable is a complex character, caught between his good nature towards the people of Anatevka and his duty to the non-Jewish Russian government. This is a non-singing role that requires a strong actor.

The Fiddler must be an actor who can hold the attention of an entire audience with stylized movement, facial expression and dance. Freedom of movement and expression are the keys to casting this character. The Fiddler is a silent role, yet an important one.

Large ensemble of villagers