JOSEPH and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat opened at the Gaiety Theatre last night and wowed the audience with its superb choregraphy, brilliant cast and feel-good vibe.
Starring Craig Chalmers, who featured in the live finals of Any Dream Will Do - the BBC TV search to find an actor to appear as Joseph in the West End - the British Isles touring production of the show left the entire audience with a smile on their face.
The show, which is based upon a Biblical story, tells the tale of Joseph who has 11 brothers. Joseph is his father Jacob's favourite and Jacob gives him a coat of many colours.
However, to say his brothers are not impressed with Joseph is an understatement, especially as Joseph tells them of his dream of how they will all bow down to him in the future.
They sell him into a life of slavery, but don't worry, everything works out in the end!
Trina Hill plays the role of the narrator onstage and did a superb job and there is a local element to the show too - pupils from Stage One Drama School serve as the choir.
With lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the show is packed with memorable songs including classics such as Any Dream Will Do and Close Every Door.
There is lots of fun, humour and a bit of cheese too. In fact at one point I thought this is what it would be like if you held Eurovision in a luminous paint factory. Lots of smiles and bright outfits!
The difference is though that this cast is ultra-talented. The choreography was stunning and the singing brilliant.
This is an ideal show for families as all generations will thoroughly enjoy it.
Craig, who signed autographs for fans after the performance, told the audience that after three years in the role in the touring production this would be one of his last venues. It was great to see him - and everyone of his fellow talented cast members - perform on the Gaiety stage and a ticket for this show is a must for anyone who likes musicals or wants a great night out.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat runs at the Gaiety until Saturday, July 3. For ticket details see www.villagaiety.com
