I never saw Fierstein in FIDDLER so I don't have an opinion and I certainly wouldn't start a thread questioning an actor's ability to handle a role unless of course it's Kristin Chenoweth in PROMISES, PROMISES.
Saw Fierstein play the part on Broadway as well. I can't stand this show, but he and Andrea Martin were both lovely. (Though I remember liking Andrea Martin more because she cut off with the conductor during "Anatevka" and the others did not...)
I understand that you saw Harvey's performance in its entirety and have not seen him do it live. Be cautious speaking of such things here though, it can have a serious backlash for you; also remember, in cases like that, you are essentially seeing a production through a second directors eyes, and you can be very mislead by what you are seeing. I have not seen Harvey in the role, the last time I saw it Theodore Bikel was still doing it. I do know that Harvey got many very favorable reviews on Broadway and many other stops nationwide. It is true that he is not a great singer, but it seems he is a very good performer in this role.
I saw Fierstein in Fiddler on Broadway and his performance was beautifully nuanced and touching. While previous Tevyes I've seen were mostly about chewing scenery and hammy self-indulgent vaudevillian antics, Fierstein surprised me with the truth and authenticity he brought to the role, which more than made up for his vocal talents.
"What can you expect from a bunch of seitan worshippers?" - Reginald Tresilian
Interesting. I saw it last night in Seattle - because of Harvey, so I was expecting to see Harvey. And that's what I got. I thought he was great, though the mugging was a bit much a few times. As far as the rest of the production, I was thoroughly disappointed.
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Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted.
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