This is the second time I’ve had the pleasure of seeing this biblical story of Joseph, his coat of many colours and his knack of being able to interpret dreams.
For those that aren’t familiar with the story, Joseph is his father’s favourite child, his brothers become jealous of him and decide to sell him into slavery. Joseph refuses the advances of his owner Potiphar’s wife, so she decides to fabricate a story about him and he gets thrown into jail.
Once in jail, he gains popularity through his ability of being able to interpret dreams. The Pharaoh hears of him and appoints him as his second in command.
Years later, Joseph’s brothers have suffered in the famine and are starving. They don’t recognise Joseph and ask him for help. Joseph tricks his brothers, but ends up helping them, he tells them who he really is, and the family is reunited.
Adam Filipe is excellent in the role of this latest production of Joseph at Curve. His vocals are exceptionally strong, and the classic numbers Any Dream Will Do and, in particular, Close Every Door did not fail to disappoint.
Likewise, Joe McElderry as Pharoah is phenomenal, and really entertaining. The stage set for Pharaoh’s palace is incredible, with the hieroglyphics adorning the back walls and the huge Egyptian deities looming over the cast. Song of the King is hugely entertaining and McElderry carries the scene with vigour.
The huge Las Vegas-esque sign “Welcome To Fabulous Egypt” really is the icing on the cake for these scenes. The huge camel “puppets” are also a brilliant touch in the production.
One of my favourite parts of the production is Simeon and the brothers performing “Those Canann Days” – this is highly entertaining.
Christina Bianco is the narrator in this show and she also plays Jacob, Joseph’s father. Bianco is clearly talented, and helps the story progress. Personally, I think as the narrator is such a key role, it would have been more appropriate for another actor take on the role of Jacob.
The brothers and swing cast worked exceptionally hard and there is some brilliant choreography. In this production, the children are not only involved in the narration of the story (as was the case last time I watched Joseph), but also play key roles in the show. They are incredibly talented, and look like they are having the most wonderful time on stage.
Everyone left on a high following the megamix at the end which got the audience up and dancing.
★★★
Joseph is at Curve until Saturday, July 5, including an audio described version on Saturday at 2.30pm. Limited tickets available
