Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat 2013 Review
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Princess Theatre, Torquay
5-9 November 2013
Reviewed by Ian Ballinger
This is a classic musical with a rich history and now on its fourth UK tour since 2009, it continues to put bums on seats with its array of brilliant songs, vibrant colour and twists of humour that comes through Bill Kenwright's expert direction.
Arriving in Torquay, we were pleasantly greeted with beautiful illuminations reflecting in the calm sea – it really was a picture. Set just off the pier, the Princess Theatre draws the eye from right around the harbour where we had parked and invites you to come in.
It was clear when we arrived it was a busy evening as there was plenty of hustle and bustle half an hour before curtain-up. It turned out to be a full house, which makes any show extra special, and we were in for a treat.
The story of Joseph is based on the story from the book of Genesis in the Bible and tells the story of 11 jealous brothers who sell the favoured son, Joseph, into slavery. Then, following numerous twists and turns, Joseph eventually ends up in Egypt in the service of Pharaoh, the most powerful man in the ancient world before being reunited with his family.
In this production the lead role is played by former Steps singer, Ian 'H' Watkins, who uses his natural ability as a showman with great skill. Whilst his received pronunciation is a work in progress, Ian is a genuine entertainer and had the crowd desperate for more when the curtain came down.
Joseph is a musical where the narrator has the most stage time and the most to do vocally. I personally felt that Jennifer Potts was the highlight of the production, whose big vocal ability and range were features throughout. In the interest of balance it has to be reported that my wife felt 'H' stole the show.
Extra special praise has to go to the supporting cast, choir and musical talent that make this production everything it is. There are many young talented children in the choir and their permanently visible role added so much depth and atmosphere to the performance.
The supporting cast, many of whom play two roles, all contributed at the same incredibly high standard of the lead performers and all danced and moved brilliantly throughout.
There were a couple of unexpected gems in this production, like the appearance of Pharaoh as Elvis – in special Eye of Horus jump suit – and the Paris staging to reintroduce the brothers and father in act 2. The songs too have had little additions of humour, which highlighted how polished this production is and kept me listening intently.
Joseph is a production to entertain rather than to move you emotionally and it ticked that box in a big way for us. We would both highly recommend visiting this production if you are lucky enough to find a theatre with tickets still available.
Rating: 5/5 
The UK tour ends on 7th December. Tickets cost from £12.90-£38.90 + £4.00 transaction fee and are available to buy from www.josephthemusical.com/tickets
