This show has it all: An imaginative palm tree and sweeping steps stage, humorous props (including inflatable sheep, singing camels and a menacing sphynx), bright and colourful lighting, uplifting live music, playful costumes and an energetic cast with great backing harmonies by the children of Babette Langford Young Set.
The audience were clapping along during the overture and were rapturous in their applause after each and every one of the much-loved songs. I’m still impressed by how so many different music genres – country, rock and roll, pop, ballad, Charleston, music hall, French torch songs and even calypso – are crammed seamlessly into one show.
Joe McElderry, winner of the sixth series of X Factor, came across as a little cool at the start with some over-enunciation but he quickly warmed to the role. It was a confident performance and his final rendition of “Close every door to me” was passionate and heartfelt. Those playing his 11 brothers were all accomplished singers and dancers and raised more than a laugh or two.
Ben James-Ellis as Paraoh didn’t need the fireworks to set his Elvis impression alight. But he was in danger of eclipsing McElderry at one point. A favourite scene involved his guards in an Egyptian- American football player costume mash-up with accompanying cheer-leaders.
My only very minor grumble was the narrator who wore an out-of-kilter costume and a false fixed grin throughout her singing which seemed rather over-amplified throughout the production.
It was a very long time ago when I performed this Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd-Webber musical at school – but the lyrics and music seemed as fresh and funny as they did then. It was a joyous performance that even the most hard-hearted sceptics would find hard to resist.
There are matinees and evening performances – with three on Saturday – at Richmond Theatre.
http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/joseph-and-the-amazing-technicolor-dreamcoat/richmond-theatre/
Further UK tour dates and venues here: http://www.josephthemusical.com/
