The play opens with a number about the importance of tradition in their lives ("Tradition"), and segues into Golde's discussion with the town matchmaker. Tevye's three oldest daughters discuss what kind of husband they would like ("Matchmaker, Matchmaker"), but realize that they could end up with an awful husband. Meanwhile, Tevye considers what his life would be like if he were rich ("If I Were A Rich Man"), and then the family convenes for a traditional Sabbath dinner ("Sabbath Prayer").