Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Lyrics by Tim Rice
Produced and Directed by Jessica Holt
Music Director Courtney Miles
Choreographer Kristi Tomenga
Asst Choreographer Ashley Tone
Technical Director/Set Design Conor Clark
Lighting Designer Derek Cheung
Sound/ Special Effects Branson White
Prop Designer Rodney Hudson
Costumes Jessica Holt and Taylor Veer
Wig Stylist Sarah Phillips
Stage Manager Sienna Abbott
My thoughts on Joseph/Coat or…the coat isn’t the only thing that’s dazzling
If you drive through the town of Irving, Texas during the next couple of weeks, don’t be surprised if it looks a bit gray and monochromatic. That’s because all the color in town is now over at 222 Irving Blvd where The Hopeful Theatre Project’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is being produced.
Sitting in the black box theater becomes a kaleidoscopic event. You are immersed in a world of brilliant colors that constantly change form. You even become part of the color as each patron is given a bracelet to wear those changes hues during the performance. The colors extend to the gorgeous costumes designed by Producer/Director Jessica Holt and Taylor Veer and there are countless costume changes for this cast of 28. (I think I’m counting correctly) Those costumes whirl, twirl, and unfurl to the fast paced, sometimes comic, sometimes sensual choreography from Kristi Tomenga and Ashley Tone. The multilevel Egyptian themed set is designed by Conor Clark and even it is lined with colored lights that chase each other. Derek Cheung provides the lighting often spotlighting the singers and Branson White keeps it all audible.
When I say this Joseph is a remarkable achievement, it is an understatement. I’ve directed this show before and know that it is much fun, but also challenging. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s score includes everything from soaring ballads to Country/Western to faux French angst to Caribbean vibes. There’s no dialogue in the show and each musical number calls for its own special vignette. Director Jessica Holt has so many inventive, creative ideas and surprises that it’s almost head spinning. Sitting in that theater becomes absolute joy.
Another aspect of the show in which Holt displays her expertise is in casting. This is a huge ensemble show and it is cast perfectly. I wish I had the space and time to examine each performance individually (Please click on the View Program to see the entire terrific cast), but I do want to highlight a few performances.
Holt’s biggest casting coup is using child actor extraordinaire Arrae Suttles. I’m not sure of her age, but I would guess around seven. Arrae has the poise and presence of a pro already and a singing voice that is lovely. Using Suttles to frame the story and to participate in scenes throughout is brilliant. If Arrae doesn’t already have an agent, she needs to get one ASAP. She could be making a fortune doing tv commercials. She’s that good.
Kristina Bain appears in the central role of the Narrator. Bain has one of those voices that can go from softness to a belt in an instant and her singing is what narrates the entire evening. She is constantly on stage keeping the audience aware of where we are in the story of Joseph and his brothers. Bain is a consummate narrator and has a kind, caring demeanor that endears her to the audience.
In the title role is Ben Rongey. Rongey has a powerful voice and his “Close Every Door” is moving and a highlight of the play. He is a youthful Joseph, wide eyed and good natured. He also has a gift for comedy which gives him a playfulness that adds to his lovability factor. He’s a wonderful Joseph who would also be an excellent Charlie Brown.
Joel Lagrone plays both Jacob and Potiphar. I think Director Holt must have placed a call to Central Casting and said send me your best biblical patriarch, because that is exactly what the bearded Lagrone is. He sings well and portrays both the loving father of many and the gangsterish looking wealthy Egyptian Potiphar equally well. I’ve seen this musical a number of times and Lagrone is by far the best Jacob I’ve seen.
Conor Clark plays brother Naphtali, but it is as Pharoah that he gets to shine. Pharoah is the Elvis Presley of his time and Clark has him down pat, even to the curl on the forehead. I’ve been a fan of Clark since he played Roger in RENT a couple of seasons ago. He is one of the most versatile actor/singers around and he also designs and build sets like this one.
One of the coolest aspects of getting to review so many shows is when I come across an actor previously unknown to me who makes a huge first impression with their star power. Such is the case with LaMar Staton who plays Judah and sings the Jamaican flavored “Benjamin’s Calypso.” Staton is smooth and self-assured with an excellent voice and an undeniably appealing presence. No wonder he seemed to have an appreciative female fan club present.
The Hopeful Theatre Project is unique in that 75% of the ticket price goes directly to the charity they are supporting for the production. Joseph supports an organization called Precious Dreams that provides help and comfort for homeless children and children in foster care. This sold out run of Joseph has raised eight thousand dollars for the organization.
Joseph is a feel-good show that you actually do good by attending. You can’t say that about going to the theater very often, but that is the mission of the Hopeful Theatre Project. Director Holt and her team have created an outstandingly entertaining musical that I would urge you to see if it wasn’t completely sold out. Congratulations to all involved.
