Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

“May I return to the beginning”? This Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber musical was launched more than 35 years ago, as a twenty-five minute end-of-term school production that was later to hit the West End as “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”. throughout each vibrant number, as the story unfolded on a well-dressed stage with lighting to accord.

But no twenty-five minute reprise here….. The pupils of Durlston Court School served up a feast of vocal talent to a captivated audience with their interpretation of the complete pop opera’s repertoire, from the narrators’ opening number “Prologue” to the whole cast’s finale “Any Dream Will Do”. And what talent! Having seen previous Durlston productions I had fully expected a show full of colour, effort and energy…and I wasn’t disappointed, but I had seriously underestimated the benchmark. Each and every member of the splendidly costumed cast, complimented by the choir of 50+ children, sang and danced their hearts out. The clarity and vitality that the young cast brought to Rice’s lyrics were echoed throughout each vibrant number, as the story unfolded on a well-dressed stage with lighting to accord.

The handmaidens brightened up scene after scene with their inventive dance routines whilst Potiphar, Mrs Potiphar, the Butler, the Baker, the Guards and the Waitress all played their part to maintain the exceptionally high standard as we progressed fluidly through the acts. On to the Pharaoh’s Palace where we met “The King”….Magnus McGrigor’s performance of “Song of the King” had the audience clapping along as Tennessee met Barton-on-Sea…Elvis lives!

The Narrators, all six of them, held the show together with their clear and tuneful compact storytelling. Jacob looked for all the part the doting father and Joseph’s eleven siblings were jealous, resentful, reflective and repentant in equal harmonic measure. Great costumes complimented the Ishmaelites, who would no doubt be subject to a collective ASBO in today’s society!    

And then there was Joseph….Rory Hudson’s portrayal of the young shepherd boy who becomes Pharaoh’s right-hand man treated us to a quality of performance throughout the evening. His singing voice is very impressive indeed….clear and musical with great phrasing….a joy to listen to.

In a show where everyone was a star, Rory was indeed the superstar.

Thank you to the Durlston Court pupils, staff and parent helpers for your effort in the production of this colourful musical extravaganza. The standing ovations the show received on both nights barely did it justice….”professional” is the accolade it deserves. Finally, good luck to next year’s Directors (you’ll need it!)….the standard has been set!