Over 50 years after its first ever performance in the West End, Joseph still does exactly what it has always done. It gives the audience, old and new, a show full of catchy songs with a solid but simple storyline. For the first-time theatregoer it provides a fantastic introduction to the world of theatre and, for the seasoned audience member, seeing it again just feels like meeting a beloved old friend.
So much has been written over the years about the fantastic musical score (which remains largely unchanged), the wonderfully colourful costumes (which are just as vibrant as ever) and the palpable sense of joy that this musical gives its audience, that I won’t bother to elaborate.
After taking a 20-year break from the stage, to raise a family, Mike Thompson returns to the Tunbridge Wells Operatic and Dramatic Society in the lead role of Joseph and has a brilliant combination of the boyish charm he needs in act one together with the more masterly persona required later in the performance. He is perfectly comfortable with both the comedic and emotional sides of his character. In addition, his voice is clear and powerful, and, throughout the show, it is obvious that he loves playing the role.
Liv Jones takes on the role of the narrator and opens the show with a tender and heartfelt prologue which starts the journey back to biblical days. The Joseph set is the usual dual staircase one which looms large over the, otherwise empty, stage. On it sits the Joseph Choir (at this performance Evie Mutti, Amelie Elomari, Matilda-Rose Riley, Grace Harman, Rosa Kemp, Mae Hughes, Anna Thomas, Lizzie Greenwood, Angelica Hagen, Millie Rainbow, Poppy Rainbow, Elodie Orton Jay and Isaac Wheeler), who then provide the backing vocals for the brilliant, Any Dream Will Do.
The enthusiasm with which the brothers introduce themselves, and then throw themselves into the constant singing and dancing marathon that characterises this show, is carried on all the way through to the finale. Despite the breakneck pace of the show, the amazingly quick costume changes that are required and the hugely energetic Joseph Megamix ending, they never seem to tire.
Another wonderful thing about this show is the way that so many musical styles are used and it’s great to see that the lead vocals are shared by so many of the cast. Particular mention should go to Adam Snyder (as Zebulun) who sings a superb version of Those Canaan Days and to Gary Russell, who appears in a coconut shell bra and grass skirt combo as Dan, to deliver Benjamin’s Calypso.
Pharaoh (Lee Beaney) still appears in his Elvis Presley jumpsuit, but his entrance is somewhat flatter than it should be. Surrounded by his adoring fans, Pharoah soon gets the whole audience clapping along while he recounts the tales of his bizarre dreams, with enough time and energy to go through it all – “Just one more time”. His infectious charm and comedic timing make his performance a joy to watch.
This is not a show that will change the world, well, not completely. What it does do is take people who may have had a hard day, and it makes them smile. It makes tired feet tap along to the superb music and it ensures that, whatever troubles there are outside the theatre doors, they stay outside. This show is feel-good with a capital F and, I am certain, it will still be running fifty years from now!
**** Four Stars