Birmingham Hippodrome – until 13 July 2019
Reviewed by Joanne Hodge
5*****
From the opening orchestral medley, right through to the full-cast ‘Megamix’ reprises, Joseph was an audio-visual spectacular, and praise should be heaped upon creatives Sean Cavanagh (Design), Nick Richings (Lighting), Dan Samson (Sound) and Jeremy Wootton (Musical Direction).
Having seen a previous touring version of the show some time ago, it’s clear to see that Henry Metcalfe’s original choreography has been further enhanced by additions from Gary Lloyd.
The beloved musical, which at its first professional premiere was a mere 35 minutes, now runs at around two hours and tells the Biblical story of Joseph (a dreamer) – the favourite son of Jacob – and the complex relationship he has with his eleven brothers in Caanan. We follow Joseph as he is sold by his brothers as a slave, due to their fierce jealousy, and the roller-coaster of fortunes he encounters thereafter. From Housemaster to prisoner at the House of Potiphar, then analysing dreams for Pharaoh, resulting in his saving of Egypt in famine. Finally, as he prophesied in his youth, his brothers end up unknowingly bowing at his feet, resulting in their ultimate reconciliation.
In this re-working of the Lloyd Webber/Rice classic, directed by Bill Kenwright, much of the story is told in song, with very few spoken words. The tale is certainly in safe hands with Narrator Trina Hill, who from the first note had the audience captivated with her clear-as-crystal tone. Whether in quiet, softer moments, or belting out the highest of high notes, her voice made you feel like that whatever twists and turns Joseph’s life may take, she would be there, reassuring him – and you – in the warm blanket of her velvet vocals.
In Jaymi Hensley, Joseph has found a new and refreshing incarnation. Far from his popstar roots, he astounded with both his acting and musical talents. Every emotion was displayed through his facial expressions, and the character portrayed beautifully from tip-to-toe. He held everyone present in the palm of his hand. From the light-hearted and whimsical Any Dream Will Do to his haunting rendition of Close Every Door (I honestly had goose bumps) it seemed like he was born for this role. I could easily see his performance transferred to the current West End production.
The whole ensemble gave their all, but particular plaudits must also go to Andrew Geater, playing Pharaoh – the obligatory Lloyd Webber Elvis-esque character – with hip-swivelling aplomb. Who knew a skin tight satin suit and quiff could be so titillating?!?
Mention should also be given to the children of Birmingham’s School of Theatre Excellence, performing as The Joseph Choir, who were just angelic.
I thoroughly enjoyed the performance, the only downside was that time seemed to fly – I didn’t want it to end! I would highly recommend that should the opportunity arise to see Joseph on its current UK tour, you must go, because it’s not just due to Jaymi that this show has the X-Factor!