REVIEW - Whether you're a dreamer, music lover or simply looking for technicolor magic, Joseph will sweep you away!

On Thursday, we were invited to the Opera House in Manchester to see Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. See what our reviewer, Lizzie Johnston thought about this fabulous famuly musical...

Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is back in Manchester and it’s as vibrant and joyous as ever. This classic Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice masterpiece has returned with all its toe-tapping hits, spectacular visuals, and larger-than-life storytelling. Considering it’s known to be a classic, I’ve never actually seen the show before! But I do know the iconic tunes and have seen the film adaptation so I had a pretty good idea on what to expect. Alongside an audience ranging across ages and several groups of schoolkids, I took to my seat excited to be taken into the colourful world of Joseph. 

This story follows the biblical tale of Joseph, a dreamer with a coat of many colours, as he navigates betrayal, hardship, and ultimate triumph. With a mix of musical styles, larger-than-life characters, and a whole lot of heart, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat brings a timeless story to life in the most entertaining way possible. From Pharaoh’s rock ‘n’ roll swagger to the hilarious country-western hoedown, every scene is a spectacle.

The excitement was palpable as the audience filled the theatre, with a buzz of nostalgia and anticipation in the air. Joseph is a show that spans generations, and the crowd reflected just that – families, school groups, and long-time musical lovers all gathered to revel in the magic. As soon as the overture began, with its instantly recognisable melodies, the energy in the room lifted, and the show took us on a whirlwind journey of dreams, resilience, and dazzling theatricality.

Joseph boasts one of the most varied and infectious scores in musical theatre. From the anthemic ‘Any Dream Will Do’ to the show-stopping ‘Go, Go, Go Joseph,’ every song is packed with charm and originality. Each number brings something new – from pop ballads to calypso rhythms – and it’s impossible not to get swept up in the joy of it all. The sheer stamina of the cast is nothing short of impressive, as they leap, twirl, and belt their way through an energetic and fast-paced show that never lets up.

Joseph, played by the immensely talented Adam Filipe (We Will Rock You, Titanic, Cinderella), is a dreamer you can’t help but root for. With effortless vocals and a natural warmth, he captures the highs and lows of Joseph’s journey with sincerity and charm. His rendition of ‘Close Every Door’ was truly moving, holding the audience in rapt silence before erupting into well-deserved applause.

The Narrator, played by the sensational Christina Bianco (Hello Dolly, Rent, Funny Girl), is the heart of the production and was the standout for me, guiding the audience through the story with wit and incredible vocal prowess. Her powerhouse performance tied everything together, and her interactions with the cast brought an extra layer of playfulness to the show. Her stamina and energy was unmatched and really played into the youthful vibe of the show. 

The entire ensemble is electric, bringing boundless energy to every scene. The brothers, each with their own distinct personalities, delivered plenty of comedic moments, and their performance of ‘Those Canaan Days’ was a standout, turning a lament into a hilarious and theatrical spectacle. Meanwhile, the Pharaoh, played with Elvis-inspired swagger by Joe McElderry (X Factor, Tommy, Club Tropicana), stole every scene he was in, sending the audience into fits of laughter with his over-the-top charisma.

The child actors were incredible too and were part of the ensemble throughout the entire show. I was so impressed by how much involvement they had and the energy and enthusiasm they brought to it. Not forgetting their fantastic talent too. 

Visually, the show is a feast for the eyes. The set is a vibrant blend of Egyptian grandeur and whimsical dream sequences, with dynamic staging that keeps the action moving seamlessly. It’s cleverly done by having a clear stage and just using backgrounds, lighting and props to transform the set.

The costumes are just as bold and fun as the production itself, transporting the audience from the deserts of Canaan to Pharaoh’s palace with a splash of dazzling creativity. And the iconic technicolour coat did not disappoint when Joseph was dancing around in it whilst it shimmered under the lights. 

True to the spirit of Joseph, the show is bursting with humour, warmth, and a sense of pure theatrical fun. Whether it’s your first time seeing it or you’ve been singing along to ‘Any Dream Will Do’ for years, this production guarantees a night of joy, laughter, and uplifting entertainment.

It’s the perfect theatre show for families and an ideal introduction to musicals for any children experiencing theatre for the first time. With its colourful spectacle, catchy songs, and engaging storytelling, it’s a wonderful way to spark a love of live performance in young audiences.

So, whether you’re a dreamer, a music lover, or simply looking for a night of technicolour magic, grab your tickets and prepare to be swept away. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a show that never loses its sparkle.

WE SCORE JOSEPH...

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is at the Manchester Opera House until Sun 9 March.


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