Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat

My thanks to Perform for their invitation to see their latest production, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat performed at the Wydean School Chepstow. Having not seen this show for several years, I was very much looking forward to any new innovations from a society that I have known to be very creative in past shows. The casting being split into 3 interchanging groups for principal characters, meant that this review covered Cast A. I am certain however that whatever performance I had witnessed the quality of that performance would have been to any equal standard. 

The show being based on a living moving story requires a clear telling of the tale in word and music and the Narrator played by Beth Riordan-Francis did just that. Her personality shone through and had the audience listening to every word. Beth worked very well with the young Academy Ensemble, using the stage well and supporting the young cast. With an excellent singing voice and clear storytelling, she made the part her own. Well done.

Tom Bradford as Joseph burst on to the opening scene with an enthusiasm and energy that did not diminish. Tom put heart and soul into every scene, and the joy of the performance was obvious. His vocals were strong and deeply emotional. My congratulations on a performance well done.

Daniella Manning as Pharaoh hit the stage like a minor explosion and created a side show all her own. The character was larger than life, as a Pharaoh should be with a personality and energy to match. A great vocal performance and with body language and facial expression to match; a superb performance.

It was an absolute joy to see a male chorus known as “The Brothers” of Joseph, in such harmony. Their characterisation, comic timing, movement and interaction with each other was more than just entertaining. My congratulations to you all, your individual performances had a major impact on the whole show.

I must give my final thoughts in relation to the success of this show that I feel an audience would take away.  The choreography was remarkable and carried out with a skill and precision that set the stage alight. Choreographer Megan Pugh. The costumes were outstanding and gave each scene a Hollywood dazzle. My respect to Louise Pugh Creative Director. The stage setting and special effects created gave every scene  something new and different.

An outstanding show greatly enjoyed by the audience. You took an old show and gave it a whole new look.    BRAVO

 

The views in this report are solely of the author.

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