Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a musical that makes everyone smile and sing along. Created during the very early years of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s extremely fruitful partnership, there’s a child-like innocence about the musical, evoking feelings of nostalgia in many. 

After a run in Melbourne, Laurence Connor’s production of Joseph, which is the first in Australia to adapt the new staging of the musical, headed down to the Capitol Theatre in Haymarket for its Sydney run. Everything about this production, from the sets to the costumes, screamed ‘bigger, brighter, better’ and this certainly seemed to be Connor’s intended vibe. 

Like many Lloyd-Webber musicals (and indeed, many of the musicals du jour), the songs are what carry the show. And indeed, the music shone through in this performance thanks to an incredible display of vocal talent across the company. In this regard, Paulini, as the narrator of the show, was the star. Her presence and poise were incredibly strong throughout the whole show and her voice was transcendental. The power of her belt in its high register was truly something to behold. 

The other actors were also excellent. Daniel Raso did an superb job as the highly entertaining Pharaoh, consistently getting laughs from the audience. Euan Fistrovic Doidge also showcased his beautiful voice throughout as Joseph however, his characterisation lacked depth at times which meant that the meaning of the songs often got lost as did connection with the audience. That said, his rendition of ‘Close Every Door’ was spectacular, delivering the perfect balance of power, vulnerability and raw emotion, ably supported by the children’s cast. 

Speaking of the children’s cast, it is safe to say that they were the true stars of the show. They were incredibly well-rehearsed and every gesture seemed natural and engaged. Their vocals were also spectacular, blending in well with the ensemble and with each other. Special mention must go to Jeffrey Dimi for his outstanding performance of “Benjamin Calypso,” delivered with energy and remarkably strong vocals. His presence at such a young age could rival many adults (as could his voice for that matter) and he is someone who I am sure we will be seeing a lot more of in years to come.

The rest of the ensemble was also strong, supported by a powerful band and a costuming team who clearly loved the brief of extravagant and varied clothing. The set design was also extraordinary with the dancing statues in ‘Song of the King’ a particular highlight. Given the diversity of roles played by the ensemble, it seemed like a perfect opportunity for more diverse casting. However, the casting of the ensemble arguably did not match the diversity of the story portrayed which not only felt like an opportunity was missed but also made the swathe of ‘Egyptian-style’ choreography and accompanying costuming seem a little awkward. While this is an issue across Australian musical theatre as a whole, the subject matter of this musical did accentuate the issues a little more in this production. 

With that said, this was an incredibly fun and enjoyable musical. There was a palpable energy amongst the audience and for the 10 minute megamix that closed the show, nearly all of the audience was on their feet. This was a show that was carried by its extremely strong vocal cast, its incredible set design and costume department and of course, Paulini and the children’s cast. This is a musical spectacular and for any fans of the Rice/Lloyd-Webber suite and/or fun and upbeat musicals, this is certainly well worth a watch. 

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is playing at the Capitol Theatre until April 23. Purchase your tickets and find out more here.

Rating ★★★1/2