Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

It is always a pleasure to review a Centre Stage production.  After being warmly greeted and refreshments offered, we took our seats with plenty of time to peruse the programme.  The run is set to be a sell out which is always good to hear.

Ten years ago the Director and MD enjoyed being cast members in a Centre Stage production of Joseph. Having decided they now wanted to work together on a show, there really was no choice in the matter…it had to be Joseph!

Hannah Mizon and Ava Herd shared the role of Narrator, performing on alternate days, with the exception of this performance when Hannah covered Act 1 and Ava Act 2. Prior to curtain up we observed Hannah take her seat before opening a large bible, ready to be joined by the chorus of children.  What a lovely way to introduce us to the show.  Both Hannah and Ava have strong singing voices and I really liked their expressive storytelling.

Well done to Oliver Reid as Joseph.  Nicely acted and his songs were very well sung. Jacob was well played by Ronnie Barker surrounded by his sons, all of whom appeared fully immersed in their roles.

Theo Ogbhemhe Smith as Pharoah gave a great Elvis impersonation and what a terrific black and gold costume.   He also played Potiphar, a role in which he had a spot of trouble with his bow tie.  Having failed to fasten it, I liked how he made a positive move of ripping it off while staying in character. Well done to Emily Bonfield as Potiphar’s wife, flirting with Joseph while her husband counts his money.

The show is full of memorable songs, including the French inspired “Those Canaan Days” which was well sung by the brothers.  Their black berets were removed several times, to give emphasis to the song, but unfortunately took varying amounts of time to replace and this was a bit distracting. Berets are not of course the easiest type of headwear to manoeuvre.  

Well done to Isaac Ives who had the audience clapping along to his terrific solo, "Benjamin Calypso".

The single set consisting of a series of platforms in the form of a pyramid, was used by the cast to good effect.  Large props were kept to a minimum with the set being enhanced by two palm trees and a life sized camel which really added to the atmosphere.

Choreography was good and not too complicated, resulting in slick routines with everyone keeping in step.  The dancing really was a joy to watch.

Costumes for the most part were kept simple. There were some good lighting effects, in particular the prison bars spot. Sound throughout was good.  A live orchestra is always the icing on the cake and here it proved to be the perfect accompaniment. Never too loud, allowing these young voices to be heard at all times.

Just one thing – I would like to have seen more made of Joseph’s coat in the finale.  Apart from that a very enjoyable show. 

I do hope that Director Victoria and MD Catherine enjoyed their first production as a team.

Thank you for inviting me and for your hospitality.

 

 

 

 

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