Ari Axelrod’s ‘My Year in Anatevka’ Returns to Westport Country Playhouse for a One‑Night Celebration

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, Sept. 15, because Westport Country Playhouse is rolling out the red carpet for Ari Axelrod’s brand‑new show, “My Year in Anatevka.” The performance kicks off at 7 p.m., and it’s slated to run about ninety minutes—no intermission, just a straight‑through, heartfelt ride.

What’s the show about? In a nutshell, it’s Axelrod’s own backstage diary from a frenetic twelve‑month stretch that began just days after the October 7, 2023 attacks. During that period he criss‑crossed three states, hopping into three separate productions of the beloved musical “Fiddler on the Roof.” And get this—he didn’t stick to a single part; he swapped hats (and costumes) to play six very different characters: fathers, sons, a milkman, a tailor, even a priest.

As Axelrod puts it, “When the world was reeling, ‘Fiddler’ stopped being just a classic; it turned into a mirror for loss, resilience, and hope.” Each night he’ll weave together snippets of the original score, behind‑the‑scenes anecdotes, and fresh songs inspired by the show’s iconic figures—some of which never made it to Broadway. It’s part nostalgia, part discovery, and all soul‑stirring.

The production also highlights Axelrod’s recent accolades. He was honored with The Jewish Week’s “36 To Watch” award, celebrating him as one of the most influential Jews in America. His previous work, “A Place for Us: A Celebration of Jewish Broadway,” has lit up stages from Bay Street Theater to Birdland Jazz Club. In addition, he’s a recipient of the 2022 Bistro Award for Best Theatrical Artistry in Song and the Mabel Mercer Foundation’s Julie Wilson Award.

Tickets are modestly priced—$30, $40, or $50—so whether you’re a die‑hard “Fiddler” fan or just curious about a unique theatrical experience, there’s a seat for you. Grab them at westportplayhouse.org, or give the box office a ring at 203‑227‑4177 (or toll‑free 888‑927‑7529). The Playhouse sits at 25 Powers Court, just off Route 1, and the evening promises a cozy, intimate vibe that’s perfect for a fall night out.

Behind the scenes, Barbara Streicker is the 2026 programming and season sponsor, while Moffly Media and WSHU Public Radio have stepped in as media partners. In short, Westport Country Playhouse is pulling together a community of supporters to showcase a story that’s as personal as it is universal—one that reminds us all how art can keep us grounded, even when the world feels unsteady.