Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Information
- Date
- 23rd November 2023
- Society
- New Mills Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society
- Venue
- New Mills Art Theatre
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- Cathryn Yates
- Musical Director
- Claire Sweeney
- Choreographer
- Cathryn Yates
- Written By
- Andrew Lloyd Webber and Time Rice
Joseph is endearingly over the top. A myriad of theatrical moments, songs that mimic different styles, genres and even races. When watching, one needs to give in to the exaggerated form and enjoy the honest and entertaining spectacle it is. New Mills’ version allowed you to do just this.
Director and choreographer, Cathryn Yates worked a huge cast of adults and children. Creating some fabulous tableaux and shapes. Wherever one looked there was interest and the space was utilised beautifully. The choreography played to the talents of the cast, the second act was stronger in this respect but the characterisation and movement in general was peppered with fun and interesting moments.
Musical Direction was in the very capable and experienced hands of Clare Sweeney, and a very capable and experienced direction it was with this Joseph, of 15 musicians and a cast of about 50. It was clear the cast felt safe and secure in performance and the sound was fabulous, well done!
This was very much an ensemble piece. It relied on the vast crowd scenes and choral moments, but gravitas and importance were also given to the isolated character driven and more intimate scenes.
New Mills ensemble exuded an enthusiasm and sense of fun throughout the entire show and took the audience on the exciting journey and along the way, some performers were able to showcase their talents in particular roles or moments of the story.
The busiest member of the cast was Narrator played wonderfully Emily Hobson, who was able to command attention and engage the audience in moving the story along and could sing for days!
The titular role of Joseph given by Paul Rafferty, was a charismatic performance with definite leading-man energy. I enjoyed the solid character physicality and gestural choices that was consistent throughout the entire show.
Another sturdy performance came from Geoff Lunn as Jacob and Potiphah. An enjoyable and very watchable turn, well done!
The big comedy number was ably performed by Joe Maguire. Pharoh’s Song of the King was a highlight. I loved the stock stillness suddenly juxtaposed with the Elvis inspired choreography. A lovely, clear rendition that had the audience in fits. Congratulations.
Among many shining stars, two other performers shone brightly that evening, namely Leon Shufflebotham as Simeon and Stewart Bowden as Judah. Both provided us with some excellent vocals and comedic displays that entertained and tickled and were neatly put across by assured actors. Well done!
The Joseph experience this wintry evening was one of joyousness and colour. An impressive set utilised fabulously by directorial decisions, a full and luscious musical experience with an enthusiastic and delightful cast, including a very professional and engaged youth choir who were focussed and conscientious. There were some great lighting choices and the costumes worked magnificently. Not to mention the West End standard programme! Well done to all involved!
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