The McLean Community Players presented Joseph and the Amazing Technocolor Dreamcoat, a famed classic by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Kevin and Pam McCormack direct this fantastic, family-friendly production, with much of the sizeable cast made up of talented youths. A backdrop that changes color throughout the play by Lighting Designer Lynne Glickbarg – compliments a set of raised platforms, designed by Bill GlickBarg. A live orchestra sits in the back of the stage, artfully conducted by John Edward Niles. Costumer Richard Battistelli shows great range, from Biblical scarves and wraps, to Egyptian and tropical fare, and more. And Bob Zeigler’s sound design was crystal clear.
The cast of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Photo by Traci Brooks.
Kate Merryman plays the part as the Narrator, who sings us through the story of Joseph with a beautiful, powerful voice. Russell Silber brings a sweet naivety to the character of Joseph, who is the favorite son of Jacob, played by Todd King. This preference makes Joseph’s brothers boil with jealously, which reaches it’s breaking point when Joseph is gifted a colorful, gilded coat from their father. Joseph’s band of eleven brothers proves to be very entertaining. They are expressive and powerful as they exclaim, “The dreamer has to go!” With this, they sell Joseph to a group of Ishmaelites as a slave, and later return his tattered coat to Jacob with the news of his ‘death.’
What makes this production a hit is its variety in musical methods, costumes, and props. Each musical number seems to have a specific theme, from a western take in “Poor, Poor Joseph” to the perky “Go, Go, Go Joseph,” which wouldn’t be out of place at a high school pep rally. This unique assortment keeps the audience’s attention throughout, and every song yields a fun surprise. The energetic choreography provided by Pam and Kathleen McCormack is also very versatile, ranging from Egyptian dance moves to modern ballet. Paul Caffrey steals the stage as an Elvis-inspired Pharaoh, and his song “Pharaoh’s Dream Explained,” brings cheers from the audience that last so long that he jokingly peeks at his watch.
The journey through Joseph’s life, from slavery to fame, is nowhere near what you would expect in a traditional Bible study hour. The stage is bursting with energy, and the songs are catchy and enjoyable. When his brothers, stricken with famine and poverty, feel remorse and set out to find him, the song that follows involves, remarkably…a tropical setting, complete with a conga line. Reunited and eventually forgiven, the story ends happily for all those involved.
A lively finale includes a short recap of every song, providing a sort of summary with one last bang. The ensemble reappears in modern, colorful clothing that, together; make up the colors of Joseph’s coat. After a standing ovation and applause that makes my ears numb, the cast comes out into the lobby to mingle with the audience. Silly and fun, while delivering an important story, Joseph and the Amazing Technocolor Dreamcoat is perfect for a family outing.
Running time: Two hours with a 15-minute intermission.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has completed its run. Here is MCP’s 2011-2012 upcoming season.
