Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

This was a superb show from the moment the excellent 15-piece orchestra began playing the overture to the final bars of the high energy mega mix. The set was terrific, with a large pyramid of light at the top of a pyramid shaped run of stairs which opened to the sides to create a central entrance. This meant there was plenty of space for the large cast to perform in and show off their energetic dance routines. The multiple levels also helped to create some really wonderful stage pictures. Lighting was a little dark on occasion but overall, very good, as was sound.

Principal casting was extremely strong but undoubtedly the show’s strength is that everyone gets the opportunity to shine.

Joseph (Will) had a lovely tone to his singing voice and a vulnerability which worked beautifully for the more contemplative numbers, particularly ‘Close Every Door to Me’. He also proved to be a convincing actor with bags of character when required. In short, this was an extremely engaging and enjoyable performance.

The Narrator (Emma) also had a super clear voice and just the right infectious energy and charm to guide the audience through this classic biblical tale. I thought the concept of the Narrator reading the children the stories like a school teacher worked really well and Emma’s interaction with the children and audience was brilliant throughout.

As an ensemble, the children were delightful and were included far more than usual, joining in with songs and dances throughout. They were well rehearsed and performed with enthusiasm and vitality.

The 11 brothers were all varied and excellent. ‘One more Angel in Heaven’ sung by Edward as Reuben was a real highlight in the show. So too Benjamin’s ‘Calypso’, sung by George as Judah, was a considerable crowd pleaser and well performed. The harmonies from the boys at the end of ‘Those Canaan Days’ were divine.

Another highlight was a showstopping rendition of ‘Song of the King’ by Matt as the Pharoah; very much played in the style of Elvis and complete with the signature hip movements and vocals.

The all female ensemble worked well and they showed impressive dance moves and vocals, as well as some lovely moments of comedy such as the descant during ‘One More Angel in Heaven’, which was hilarious.

Musical Director, Rob, had done a great job with the vocals, ensuring the voices blended well with good diction throughout. There was also excellent support from the orchestra in the pit, producing an amazing sound in so many different musical styles and keeping the show moving at a good pace.

The choreography was really outstanding, with non stop dance from the whole company which was joyfully and accurately executed. I especially loved the tap in ‘Song of the King’. Lizzie used a great range of steps and moves to highlight and punctuate every phrase of music to brilliant effect. The whole cast really looked as if they were enjoying every moment on stage and their energy and enthusiasm permeated to the audience. Bravo!

The whole show was a feast for the eyes and ears, and the climactic unravelling of Joseph’s beautiful coat of many colours in the show’s finale was truly amazing! The full audience quite rightly gave the cast rapturous applause for a fabulously entertaining night of song and dance. Well done to all involved.

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