Who would have thought that a musical set in an Ukrainian Shtetl, telling of the persecution and eviction of Jews from their homeland, would prove to be such a durable success. Regular revivals of this musical prove how popular and beloved it has become.

This latest production, directed by Daniel Evans, shouts class and has the audience delivering thunderous applause at the end of every musical number. The story tells of Tevye, a poor milkman, and the struggles of his family and fellow villagers in Tsarist Russia at the turn of the century. Amidst tears and sadness, warmth and humour abound in the show.

‘Tradition’ is the opening number and what follows is tradition breaking down as each of Tevye’s daughters challenges the old order – two want to choose their own husbands rather than have marriages arranged by their father and a matchmaker, whilst the other marries outside the faith. Tevye, like the rooftop fiddler trying to keep his balance, struggles to maintain the balance between his love for his children and accepting a new order in a changing world.

Evan’s set is a bare stage within a large picture frame that freezes characters at times. He keeps the show flowing through swift, simple transitions. Alistair David’s lively choreography excites and dazzles. ‘To Life’ mixes exuberant Jewish and Cossack folk dancing and the vibrant bottle dance is suitable accompanied by a Klezmer band. Quieter numbers make their impact. ‘Sabbath Prayer’ and ‘Sunrise, Sunset’ are beautifully simple and touching.

Omid Djalili as Tevye is outstanding, squeezing every ounce of comedy from the role but also delivering its pathos. Tracy-Ann Oberman makes a perfect foil as his wife – shrewish with a caustic wit. The rest of the large cast all combine to provide excellent support, each contributing to a fine revival.