Grand Opera House, York – until Saturday 20th April 2024
Reviewed by Aimee Forsyth
5*****
Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s take on the story of Joseph and his ‘coat of many colours’ is gracing our stages again! This well-known and well-loved production is brought to life with energy and pizzazz by York Stage and The Really Useful Group Ltd. through an array of talent, imaginative staging and lighting and gorgeous colourful and glittering costumes. There is a joy and campness that would lift anyone’s spirits with an end of show climax complete with audience dancing, singing and confetti.
The show opens with the breathtakingly talented Hannah Shaw who plays the omnipresent narrator who ties the story together seamlessly. With an excitable and engaging energy, she draws the audience in with her animated facial expressions and outstanding singing voice. Hannah is accompanied by a troupe of equally gifted co-stars including Reuben Khan who plays the role of Joseph with strength and vigour. These two are only examples of the amazing talent that is displayed in this production – Jacob’s 11 other sons all work fantastically together as masters of comedy and the Wives/Ensemble are equally as talented in their trio of skills of acting, singing and dancing. Verity Carr is particularly engaging and when she is on stage, you will find yourself drawn to her due to her zest and enthusiasm.
Of course, the audience is always waiting for the most iconic number ‘Any Dream Will Do’ and Reuben Khan certainly does not disappoint in his rendition of this acclaimed song. That being said, the band of brothers put up some stiff competition to steal the limelight with their take on ‘Those Canaan Days’ which showcases the chemistry of the actors and their multifaceted talent. Another favourite has to be ‘Benjamin Calypso’ which is led by Cyanne Unamba-Oparah who plays the role of Judah. This song is in the traditional song style of Trinidad and brings about the feel-good vibes of the Caribbean.
This production will have you singing along to the classics and dancing throughout. ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ is a timeless classic and York Stage and The Really Useful Group Ltd. certainly do it justice