Traditional tunes

If I were a rich man...

There can’t be too many who would fail to recognise the opening line from the most famous song in Fiddler on the Roof, which lands in Edinburgh this month and tours to Glasgow in August.

Based on a story by Sholem Aleichem, the musical tells of a traditional Jewish father from a Russian village who decides to move his family to America.

His daughters decide that they will marry for love, against the wishes of their father. He hopes they will respect his matchmaking, marry the suitors of his choice and bring respect to the family in the process.

The story deals with the breakdown of traditions from one generation to the next, and a father's battle with change. Joe McGann stars as father Teyve in this tour by UK Productions. His recent stage work includes the lead role of Nathan Detroit in the UK tour of Guys and Dolls.

Other musical highlights of the show include Tradition, Matchmaker Matchmaker and Sunrise Sunset.

Fiddler on the Roof is at the Edinburgh Playhouse from April 15 to 19 and the Theatre Royal, Glasgow from August 19 to 23.