High energy and colorful, this Joseph is a musical theatre-lovers dream
Review of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat by Lauren C., age 16
A musical theatre lover’s dream, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a smorgasbord of musical styles, including an Elvis-style song, country music, and a disco beat. Plus, there isn’t a single spoken word in the show.
Based on the biblical story of Joseph, who is sold into slavery in Egypt and then climbs the ranks of society because of his dream-interpreting skill, Joseph takes that basic outline and turns it into an incredible, colorful, high-energy show that is extremely entertaining. This is, however, not a religious show, and would be enjoyed by teens of any faith simply for the great storytelling.
From the very beginning, the beautiful talent of the Narrator (Laurie A. Miller) creates a link between spectators and cast, carrying us through the story with grace and energy.
The story is told mainly through up-tempo ensemble pieces, but about halfway through the show, the pace slows down to connect with the ensemble on an emotional level. Joseph (Jason M. Martin Jr.) sings a moving rendition of “Close Every Door,” professing his faith even at his lowest point.
Martin and Miller are both beautifully cast, bringing hard work and artistry go their roles. In fact, that could be said of every actor in this talented ensemble. Throughout the musical, the entire ensemble works together to create a cohesive piece. Through the choreography, they sometimes enhance the set and always add to the scene. Every person on stage is truly having fun sharing the exceptional gift that each and every one of them has.
The set is simple - evocative of a storybook-like setting. Colorful lighting adds to the otherworldly effect. The costumes, especially those of the female ensemble members, are where the technical crew really went all out. The themed numbers have beautiful themed costumes, like poodle skirts with jackals in place of poodles. Oftentimes, I was shocked that the dozen or so women managed to change as quickly as they did! Overall, the technical aspects of the production worked together very well and added to the already wonderful show.
The small size of the venue makes for a community feeling, which is only added to in the lobby prior to the show. There is an ongoing holiday raffle, and tickets are sold by the arms-length. Rather than sticking to themselves, patrons found themselves asking perfect strangers for the use of their arm in hopes of getting more tickets for their money.
Personally, I found this a beautifully done production of a wonderful show. If you know this show well, I insist you go see this version. And if you’ve never heard of it, I highly suggest you attend. If you’ve never seen a musical or even a play, this would be the perfect beginning. The show is comedic with a great storyline and message, the voices are great, and the you’ll find yourself smiling all the way through.
Lauren C.
11/18/2007
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Driftwood Players
November 16th – December 16th
More info and show times: http://www.driftwoodplayers.org/
Driftwood Players’ Ticket Office: 425-774-9600
Ticket Office Hours: Open for phone calls 10 – 6 Tuesday – Saturday. Ticket office at the theatre opens one hour prior to show time.
The Driftwood Players are located at 950 Main Street in Edmonds. It is served by Community Transit routes 110, 131, 404, 416, and 870. For bus times: tripplanner.metrokc.gov
Did you see this show? Leave a comment and tell everybody what you thought!
A musical theatre lover’s dream, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a smorgasbord of musical styles, including an Elvis-style song, country music, and a disco beat. Plus, there isn’t a single spoken word in the show.
Based on the biblical story of Joseph, who is sold into slavery in Egypt and then climbs the ranks of society because of his dream-interpreting skill, Joseph takes that basic outline and turns it into an incredible, colorful, high-energy show that is extremely entertaining. This is, however, not a religious show, and would be enjoyed by teens of any faith simply for the great storytelling.
From the very beginning, the beautiful talent of the Narrator (Laurie A. Miller) creates a link between spectators and cast, carrying us through the story with grace and energy.
The story is told mainly through up-tempo ensemble pieces, but about halfway through the show, the pace slows down to connect with the ensemble on an emotional level. Joseph (Jason M. Martin Jr.) sings a moving rendition of “Close Every Door,” professing his faith even at his lowest point.
Martin and Miller are both beautifully cast, bringing hard work and artistry go their roles. In fact, that could be said of every actor in this talented ensemble. Throughout the musical, the entire ensemble works together to create a cohesive piece. Through the choreography, they sometimes enhance the set and always add to the scene. Every person on stage is truly having fun sharing the exceptional gift that each and every one of them has.
The set is simple - evocative of a storybook-like setting. Colorful lighting adds to the otherworldly effect. The costumes, especially those of the female ensemble members, are where the technical crew really went all out. The themed numbers have beautiful themed costumes, like poodle skirts with jackals in place of poodles. Oftentimes, I was shocked that the dozen or so women managed to change as quickly as they did! Overall, the technical aspects of the production worked together very well and added to the already wonderful show.
The small size of the venue makes for a community feeling, which is only added to in the lobby prior to the show. There is an ongoing holiday raffle, and tickets are sold by the arms-length. Rather than sticking to themselves, patrons found themselves asking perfect strangers for the use of their arm in hopes of getting more tickets for their money.
Personally, I found this a beautifully done production of a wonderful show. If you know this show well, I insist you go see this version. And if you’ve never heard of it, I highly suggest you attend. If you’ve never seen a musical or even a play, this would be the perfect beginning. The show is comedic with a great storyline and message, the voices are great, and the you’ll find yourself smiling all the way through.
Lauren C.
11/18/2007
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Driftwood Players
November 16th – December 16th
More info and show times: http://www.driftwoodplayers.org/
Driftwood Players’ Ticket Office: 425-774-9600
Ticket Office Hours: Open for phone calls 10 – 6 Tuesday – Saturday. Ticket office at the theatre opens one hour prior to show time.
The Driftwood Players are located at 950 Main Street in Edmonds. It is served by Community Transit routes 110, 131, 404, 416, and 870. For bus times: tripplanner.metrokc.gov
Did you see this show? Leave a comment and tell everybody what you thought!
