Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield- until 9 November 2019
Reviewed by Katie Goldsbrough
4****
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is one of the best known and loved musicals for a reason, this is a great production full of great catchy songs and an exciting story.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat tells the story of Joseph, played by Union J’s Jaymi Hensley, who is the favourite son of 12 brothers. His brothers, not being a fan of this favouritism do something awful to Joseph and we follow his story to see them meet again in very different circumstances.
Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams helps him on his way and get him out of trouble, leading to the Pharoah of Egypt, played by Andrew Geater. A favourite part of the show for many is the Pharoah’s entrance, at the start of the second act, which I won’t spoil for anyone who has yet to see the show.
For many people this show has a certain nostalgia as it’s a show often put on in schools. In this production the narrator, played by Alexandra Doar, introduces us to the story, she is fantastic throughout, always in the background with a great singing voice. A group of children sit on stairs on the main stage throughout, they start at very young age and are brilliant, keeping in time with all their choreography and singing beautifully throughout.
All 11 of the brothers have their own personalities and their individuality stands out. Benjamin, Joseph’s youngest brother and the only one that doesn’t agree with what the brothers do to Joseph stands out from the group. Alex Hetherington who plays Benjamin was fantastic throughout, he was an excellent dancer and actor, drawing the audience’s attention to him.
The choreography by Henry Metcalfe was great throughout, with actors having to contend with narrow stairs with young children sat to one side, you could tell a lot of work had been put in to exactly where everyone needed to be stood.
This is a great production, full of well-known songs including ‘Go, Go, Go Joseph’ ‘Close Every Door’ and of course ‘Any Dream Will Do’. The finale consists of a Joseph Megamix Reprise featuring all the previous songs in the show and it had the whole audience up on their feet clapping, dancing and singing along. This is a great feel good musical, suitable for all the family and a must see if you get the chance.