Here’s some news that’ll make a lot of Jewish grandparents happy: Hamilton director Thomas Kail has been tapped by MGM to direct a new big-screen adaptation of the Broadway classic Fiddler on the Roof. Steven Levenson will write the script based on the original play that won nine Tony Awards and spawned a feature film version back in 1964. I bet “If I Were A Rich Man” just started playing in your head.
Kail got his start directing Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In The Heights and Hamilton on Broadway. The latter production was obviously a huge hit, the biggest Broadway play in history, and won Kail a Tony for Best Direction of a Musical. Kail also directed the live capture version of the film that will be released on Disney+ this July. Aside from Hamilton, Kail produced the FX drama Fosse/Verdon and won a WGA award for his work there. He obviously lives and breathes musicals so Fiddler is a perfect fit for him.
Fiddler on the Roof is really one of the biggest musicals of all time. It’s the story of Tevye, a Jewish father trying to lead his family in Imperial Russia at the turn of the 20th century. The play is all about Jewish tradition (“TRADITION!!!!”), family, loyalty, faith and many other facets of life. I come from a Jewish family and Fiddler on the Roof is a big deal for many in the community. It’s more than just a musical for some, it’s sacred text. I am sure Kail understands that and will treat the source material with respect and love.
But Fiddler isn’t a stodgy, old musical. The music is great and the lead role of Tevye is a rich part. I am positive that some great A-lister will land the role and could do wonders with it. I wonder who Kail has in mind.