A big ol’ smile on your face.
That’s what the travelling production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” brings to audiences.
On Thursday night at Popejoy Hall, it was no exception. And New Mexicans have five more chances to see the show.
There’s a reason Time Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber are greats — superb lyrics and amazing music.
The story is based on the “coat of many colors” story of Joseph from the Bible’s Book of Genesis.
And was the first Lloyd Webber and Rice musical to be performed publicly and debuted on Broadway in 1982. It has very little spoken dialogue and features about 25 songs.
Stepping into the role of Joseph is University of Wyoming alum J.C. McCann. This is the performer’s first lead role in a national tour — and he knocks it out of the park.
McCann never lets the music get away from him. From the get go, he showed stage prowess.
Leading into his first solo, “Close Every Door,” McCann simply executed it all.
(Here’s a little note: McCann said in an interview that he had some nerves taking on the role of Joseph because of the musical’s successful history.)
There were absolutely no signs of it.
And then there was Laura Helm, who brought comedy and wit into the role of narrator.
Not to mention that she sang on 20 of the 25 songs in the musical.
The narrator’s role is to help transition each scene and Helm not only did that — she managed to pull focus while on stage. A sign of a great performer.
And let’s not forget the ensemble who is one of the best that I’ve seen at Popejoy Hall. In this ensemble, Marc Ciemiewicz, playing Jacob, and Joe Ventricelli, playing Pharaoh, absolutely nail their parts. Probably some of the best scenes of the musical.
The dancing was tight and really never missed a beat. Although there was one instance where a microphone didn’t work. But the cast remained unfazed.
“Joseph” has plenty of comedy and the memorable numbers compliment each other well.
If there’s one thing to get out of the musical, it’s that Joseph reminds us to never let go of our dreams and to dream big.
That’s some solid advice.
