BWW Reviews: JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAM COAT Is Fun, But Has Some Loose Threads

Andrew Lloyd Webber's JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICAL DREAM COAT is a story straight out of the bible, specifically the book of Genesis, with more sequins and singing added. Joseph is the favorite son of Jacob. Jacob unwisely gives Joseph a gorgeous coat, fanning the flames of Joseph's already jealous brothers. To add insult to injury, Joseph has many unfavorable dreams about his brothers which he freely shares with them. The angry brothers decide to sell Joseph into slavery and the story takes us through the ins and outs of Joseph's journey back to his family. It's a good story and works very well on the stage. Tim Rice's catchy lyrics and Webber's music mesh with the larger-than-life energy of the show to make for a potentially sparkly theatrical experience. Directed by Andy Blankenbuehler, this particular production of Joseph is a little uneven. Some things work incredibly well, and other things need some adjusting.

While Diana DeGarmo gives a high-energy performance as the narrator, she handles the role more like a preschool teacher addressing 4-year-olds than a woman telling an interesting story to an audience of adults. Her portrayal is more about being cute and wide-eyed rather than adding depth and dimension to the story. Her voice often sounds strained, as though she is unsupported in her singing.

Ace Young stars as Joseph, and while he is likable enough, his performance lacks true depth. It doesn't help that his voice has a nasal tinge to it, and he doesn't seem emotionally connected to the character. "Close Every Door" is a missed opportunity. I've seen this song performed by other actors and been moved to tears. Young doesn't reach emotional resonance until the end of the song and then it's over.

Despite these problems, the show is full of many great performances. Joseph's brothers are consistently the strongest part of the show. They embody everything that a makes a performance great; focus, commitment, and presence. "Those Canaan Days" is an outstanding piece of theatre, so good I wished I could rewind it and watch it again. Paul Castree plays Simeon and he is excellent as he comically laments the loss of better times with his resonant singing voice. The brothers sound so incredibly good together, and they have found a perfect balance of defining their individual characters but also working seamlessly as a unit. This musical number is a delight, with excellent staging, "dinner ware" choreography, and comedic timing.

William Thomas Evans is wonderful as Potiphar with a voice both powerful and sublime. Ryan Williams delights the audience with his narcissistic Pharoah, complete with his funny Elvis impersonation. Max Kumangai offers deliciously rich vocals as the sympathetic and merciful Judah, sticking up for his brother Benjamin, in "Benjamin Calypso".

Choreography by director Andy Blankenbuehler is rather hit and miss. While "One More Angel In Heaven" is performed winningly by Brian Golub, the choreography is lackluster and predictable. There are several times in the show when the dancing seems too easy and simple, which is puzzling because it's obvious that the cast is full of able dancers.

There is much to be lauded about the visual artistic design for the production. Set design by Beowulf Boritt is very impressive, with an artistic flair that lends to big theatrical impact. The set for the prison scene is especially outstanding, with heavy-looking, multi-level cell doors hanging ominously over the stage. Jennifer Caprio provides interesting and exciting costume design, with an appropriate point of view for each character. Daniel Brodie gives the production extra interest and dimension with his video and projection art, especially in the number "Pharaoh's Story". Lighting design by Howell Binkley could not be better; every number is enhanced by his lighting effects, both subtle and theatrical.

This TUTS production of JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICAL DREAMCOAT is full of fun showmanship and many great moments that pack a punch, but it has some loose threads that need tightening.

For tickets:http://www.tuts.com/default.aspx

Photo Credits: Daniel Brodie

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