CHOICES, it's all about choices . . .

The Everyman Rep is back and director Gemma Bodinetz has made a first-class choice in selecting Fiddler on the roof as its opener.

It is quite simply astonishing.

A stage adaptation of the classic film brought to life with an ensemble cast of actors and musicians who give 100 per cent.

The actors use every inch of the much-loved, in-the-round stage to maximum effect.

It brought back so many wonderful memories of my first time in this mould-breaking theatre.

Now 25 years on the Everyman stamp is all over this sparkling, touching and powerful production.

Dressed in the period costume of Imperial Russia in 1905, the 14-strong energetic cast are all in fine voice and they do wonders keeping the momentum going in every scene in this well-balanced, three-hour production.

They clearly relish the grand wedding ceremony, vividly beautiful dream sequence and the sparkling dances choreographed by Tom Jackson Greaves.

Humour abounds, too - notably in the running gag about a a prized sewing machine.

Set design - aided by spot-on lighting - allows the cast artistic freedom while a peasant handcart is used with great inventiveness from a drinking bar to a bedroom.

The Bock and Harnick score, of course, is timeless and praise goes to Patrick Brennan as much-put-upon dairyman and father of three daughters the weary Tevye.

He has the hardest choices of all in a restless political world around him. Oh how this play resobates now in 2017.

When he sings If I Were a Rich Man it is  expressive, joyful, soaring, and thought provoking - a real, show-stopper and that is at the start of the story following a rousing, pulsating version of the prologue Tradition.

Matchmaker, Matchmaker and Miracle of Miracles also stand out.

I raise a glass of vodka to every one involved from the stage musicians under the leadership of George Francis to the lighting and wardrobe.

Everyman and Everywoman in this new, exciting and ambitious Rep make a difference.

There is one choice you should make - go and see this remarkable and unmissable musical drama.

Faultless - five stars

The production is on until March 11.

Tickets from 0151 709 4776