Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – Leeds Grand Theatre
THE UNSTOPPABLE juggernaut of family entertainment rolls back into West Yorkshire – and it’s had a sparkling new paint job.
Although this feelgood musical rarely changes much decade by decade – the fans know what they like – the 2019 tour features the best makeover of recent years.
There are subtle tweaks to keep things fresh: a couple of new visual gags, more energetic dancing, and if I’m not mistaken, new vocal arrangements for the brothers and the whole ensemble.
Trina Hill is one of the best-ever Narrators – and I’ve seen lots over 30 years –– combining a great voice, stage presence to steal the show, and a cheeky sense of humour that bewitches both audience and performers.
Jaymi Hensley from X Factor finalists Union J is a fantastic Joseph, taking over from Joe McElderry (one of the best-ever Josephs) but instead of following in his footsteps, wearing a different pair of shoes.
Jaymi seems a little cutesy and bland in the opening scenes – lots of Joseph actors are guilty of that – but he soon shows his strengths: charm by the bucket load; a muscular, almost operatic voice that brings a rare power to the song Close Every Door to Me; and an iron core that makes his final showdown with his brothers heart-stopping and believable.
The biblical story of a boy whose dreams come true, taking him from unpopular sibling to Egyptian prince, has everything you’d want: laughs, irresistible tunes, drama and high emotion.
* Until June 15. Visit leedsgrandtheatre.com or call 0844 8482700.
David Knights
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