Upstagers Ilkley

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat

King's Hall, Ilkley

Thursday 21st April 2016

Upstagers produced Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's enduring musical under the direction of Gill Jackson twenty three years ago. The role of Joseph's brother Zebulun was played on that occasion by young Upstagers member Paul Nowland. Paul now directs and choreographs the company's new production of this fabulous "technicolour dream musical".

The sheer pizazz of Paul's high octane production is liable to leave audiences of all ages breathless with admiration. A hugely talented young cast of fifty is supplemented by thirty seven juniors who make up the "Joseph Choir" directed by Sally Egan. The multi-level stage setting dominated by steep twin staircases and a glass pyramid structure create opportunities for wonderful tableaux such as the glittering Pharaoh's Palace scene which is gorgeously lit and costumed in black and gold. Paul Nowland's slickly athletic choreography uses every inch of the stage, and every member of the cast. The visual spectacle culminates with Joseph, robed in his magnificent flowing technicolour dream coat, rising hydraulically from stage to balcony level.

The glossy stage presentation and technical wizardry are matched by the professionalism of a strong cast led by Dexter Riley's Joseph. Dexter brings a handsome stage presence and an expressive voice to this coveted role. The role of Narrator is delightfully characterised and sung with sweetness and clarity by Ruby Hendry. Elliot Broadfoot shows his versatility and comedic flair in the roles of Potiphar, Baker and Simeon. Emily Brook is a sultry and seductive Mrs Potiphar. Bradley Johnson delivers a powerful Elvis-style impersonation as Pharaoh and Ross Knowles reveals the pathos of Jacob, Father of Joseph. The Incredibly focused ensemble singing is directed by Phil Walsh who simultaneously plays the synthesised orchestral backing. A spectacularly glitzy disco-style finale brings the house down.

by Geoffrey Mogridge