JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECNICOLOR DREAMCOAT is More Than 'Amazing' at The Ogunquit Playhouse - Broadwayworld.com

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's names have become synonymous with musical theatre. Even if you've never seen a musical on stage or don't care for the art form it's almost a definite that you have at least heard of their works: Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, and Phantom of the Opera. JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT is yet another highlight of the pair's resume, and having been performed all over the world for nearly 30 years, it has become a beloved favorite of theatre goers. The Ogunquit Playhouse's new production of JOSEPH... will leave no doubt in your mind as to why this musical is so loved.

What makes this production so different from other productions of JOSEPH is a clear, precise vision and it's execution in the hands of director/choreographer Jayme McDaniel.   His choreography is not only brilliant and appropriate to the piece, it changes in style with nearly every song to fit the various musical styles (as I had mentioned before). Whether it be his Sharks and Jets-esque choreography for the brothers in "Joseph Dreams" or his island- inspired dance in the "Benjamin Calypso", his strong work is well showcased by his talented team of dancers. Too often directors try to make the piece too contemporary, or try to do too many things with it. I applaud Mr. McDaniel for deciding to add splashes of contemporary references (the Narrator takes a picture of the cast and herself after the opening number on her iPhone), while keeping the majority of the show in the world of the approximate time period.

All in all, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT at The Ogunquit Playhouse is a dazzling theatrical experience from start to finish. JOSEPH may have been done the world over, and you may have seen it a handful of times, but I doubt you have ever seen a production quite like this. Some theatergoers may complain that JOSEPH... is a fluffy piece of music theatre; are you seeing Medea? No. But if you are lucky enough to get tickets to Ogunquit's latest hit, I assure you that your expectations of the show will be met and exceeded.