Penned by a teenage Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ has been a staple of musical theatre since its initial debut in 1968. From its humble beginnings being performed at a London school, to being the internationally adored show it is today, there is a reason that it has stood the test of time.
This latest production, re-worked by Laurence Connor, has been updated for the twenty-first century and the show has never felt more fun. Bursting with energy, it is impossible not to smile from ear to ear, with JoAnn M. Hunter’s lively choreography being a major contributor to this. Ben Cracknell’s vibrant lighting design against Morgan Large’s colourful ensure that the vibrant colours that extend beyond the Dreamcoat itself into the entire production.
The score is irresistibly catchy, with everything from the timeless ‘Any Dream Will Do’ to the energetic ‘Go, Go, Go Joseph’ keeping audiences entertained throughout. Adam Filipe leads the company with charm and charisma as the most perfect Joseph. His rendition of ‘Close Every Door’ was a standout moment, not just for his irresistibly smooth vocals, but his ability to make the audience feel every word and emotion.
Christina Bianco is a revelation in the role of the narrator, exuding a warmth that endears you to her from the very beginning. Barely leaving the stage she even hilariously takes on some of the characters, holding the audience in the palm of her hand as she does so. The same tongue-in-cheek technique is utilised for some of the children to portray adult characters at points. This unfortunately didn’t have the same pay off as the concept felt a little overused.
Much like another of Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s biblical-inspired musicals, the most memorable moment if reserved for a character with less stage time. In this case, it is the role of Pharaoh, who is brilliantly reimagined as an Elvis-like figure. Joe McElderry makes the role his own, oozing confidence and energy through his performance. He makes the most of every second on the stage, with multiple encores of ‘Song of the King’ giving the audience everything they want and more.
Joseph is the perfect family show, still pulling crowds in six decades after its debut. Amidst a flood of screen-to-stage adaptations, it’s heartwarming to witness shows like Joseph introducing younger generations to live theatre, just as it did for me as a child in the 1990s. Long may this cycle continue!
'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat' plays at Manchester Opera House until Sunday 09 March 2025.
Note: My ticket was gifted in exchange for an honest review.