Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Liverpool Empire Review
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Empire Theatre, Liverpool
14-18 October 2014
Reviewed by Laura Parle
It seems like a life time ago when I first experienced the magic of Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. I might have only been 7 but I remember it well, the excitement, the voices, the songs (I still know the words) so when it came up for review I jumped at the chance, especially as it was in my home town of Liverpool.
The Empire Theatre is a truly beautiful space and it came alive with the latest adaptation from the legendary Bill Kenwright. If you went expecting the traditional story you would have been blown out of your seats, instead it was a reworked masterpiece that took you around the globe – yes really. And do you know what it worked spectacularly well. It was bright, funky, camp and with the original songs revamped it gave Joseph a new lease of life.
Joseph, played by Lloyd Daniels, an X Factor finalist from the 2009 series showcased his beautiful voice and his down to earth character which make this role a natural fit for him. The narration was from Danielle Hope, another reality TV star – she won “Over the Rainbow”. Her voice was sublime and is definitely reminiscent of a young Julie Andrews. But the star of the night has to go to Perry O’Dea, not only was he one of the 11 brothers as Issacher he was also the Pharaoh. His performance of both roles was fantastic. I actually thought another understudy had been drafted in to play the role as Issacher but midway through the second act I realised that he was indeed playing both roles. This man has a lot of talent and boundless energy, he is certainly one to watch.
A special mention needs to go to the children of Performers Theatre School who played their choir role well, they were charming and had the voice of little angels.
My favourite part of the entire show was in the last 20 minutes when the whole cast went through a medley of songs – classic Joseph style. Everyone was stood up dancing and singing and I am sure everyone left the theatre singing… I know I did.
Rating: 4/5
Tickets cost from £12.90 to £38.90 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is at the Empire Theatre, Liverpool until 18 October 2014. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 8713017.
Liverpool Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 1JE | 0844 8713017
