Thanks, Ira...

A few weeks back, Ira Glass told me Fiddler on the Roof changed his life. Coincidentally, a production of Fiddler—featuring the legendary Topol, who also starred in the 1971 film, in the lead role—opened last night at theHippodrome. I hadn't seen it since I was a teenager, so I figured I'd check it out this production, which is being billed as Topol's "farewell tour." I figured if it was good enough for Ira...

Well, it was stunningly good. The story, music, dancing, and set design were all first rate. And watching Topol was akin to seeing a master jazz or blues musician interpret classic material with nuanced skills developed over decades. Infused with a generosity of spirit, his performance was a deft balance of gestural flair and dignified economy. It was a glorious thing to witness, and I actually felt honored to be in the presence of such an artist.

This production of Fiddler on the Roof may not change your life, but it will enrich it.