LARGS Amateur Operatic Society 'raised the roof' with a spectacular performance of their big show of 2022. 

The group staged Fiddler in the Roof for the fourth time in its 75 year history but this adaptation was certainly the most timely.

The action takes place on the eve of the Russian Revolution in 1905, with the looming threat of Jewish communities being forced to flee from the occupying Russian forces, echoing the current conflict which is ongoing in Ukraine.

Barrfields was bouncing for magnificent opening number 'Tradition', with Jonathan Proctor as the lead Tevye.

Proctor's contribution was immense throughout the two and half hour show - with his crowning moment 'If I were a Rich Man' a tour de force.

The star turn had travelled from Carluke for all the shows and dress rehearsals - and the practice certainly paid dividends.

The cast list read like a who's who of top talent from Largs productions over the years, with Morag Robertson as Golde, Ailie Austin as Hodel, Linda McMurray as Yente, Matt Wilkin as Motel, David McGarvey as Perchik, Drew Cochrane as Lazar Wolf and Donna Laing as Fruma Smith.

Remarkably, Nan Fulton appeared in her 52nd show for the operatic as Grandma Tzeitel in an incredible dream sequence.

At the other end of the spectrum is sixth year Largs Academy pupil Lily Ewing - who has just been accepted into the Royal Conservatoire in Glasgow - as Tevye's daughter Chava.

Christopher Kelly as musical director and Ruairidh Forde as director and choreographer deserve great acclaim for making this show a real spectacle.

Fiddler Hazel Kennedy played the final tune as Tevye marches on to the stage, joining his townspeople who have fled their homes.

Suddenly the stage fell into darkness as heads were bowed and we were transported into the modern world as audio played from current news reports of the war in Ukraine.

Addressing the ongoing conflict, it brought one of the best ever productions seen on Barrfields' stage to a dramatic climax, with half of the proceeds going to the country's ongoing plight.

Fiddler on the Roof was another resounding success for Largs Amateur Operatic Society - and after a two year wait - a remarkable show of the talent we are blessed to have on our doorstep.

Photos: Ryan Scott Photography