Joseph - Any Dream Will Do
Marriott Theatre Lincolnshire began their fiftieth anniversary season with a stellar production of Andrew Lloyd Weber’s marvelous biblical musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”. I have had the pleasure of seeing various companies perform this show over the decades and Marriott’s production is my favorite. Aside from a brief disconcerting moment involving the faux life-size sacrificial goat, the play is pure perfection.
I absolutely loved this updated version of Joseph; a new character is added in the form of an awe inspired little girl that enjoys watching the story unfold with her parents, who may just resemble the dreamer himself and the tale’s narrator. I am completely impressed with the two young ladies, Avelyn Lena Choi and Lena Soszynski, that share the role of the pajama clad daughter whom remains on stage throughout much of the production. Both of these lovely children have amazing stage presence, professionalism and poise beyond their years, but still retain youthful enthusiasm. The future of live theater is in good hands with ingenues of this caliber.
The Marriott’s theater-in-the-round stage allows the cast to break the fourth wall with ease, bringing the audience into the Old Testament as the magic happens. I absolutely adore the minimalist set with brightly colored stars suspended from the ceiling, fun and inviting decor to enjoy from the moment you enter the theater. Props are very well done, including ears of corn, pastries, and shiny bags of grain. The lighting design is superior, including a glimmering handheld camp lantern that is very appropriate to the story line. The costumes are fabulous, period appropriate with a bit of a modern twist, just the right amount of bling and glitz. I especially liked the cheerleading outfits, complete with pom poms.
The entire cast is completely incredible. In the title role of Joseph is Devin DeSantis – I have seen many actors perform this role, including a major pop star, but Mr. DeSantis is the best Joseph I have had the pleasure of witnessing. He never falls into the trap of over playing the arrogance of the character – his Joe is sincere, believable, courageous, and confident, with just the correct amount of chagrin. The tenor high notes we have come to associate with the role are replaced by his strong, clear baritone. Devin brings the house down with “Close Every Door” and gives a flawless performance throughout the entire show. The dream interpretation scene with the Butler (Maxel McLoud Schingen) and Baker(J Tyler Whitmer) is extremely entertaining, the rapport between the men top notch.
Female lead Kaitlyn Davis as the narrator is fabulous – she is gorgeous and has a beautiful voice. Her acting skills are spot on, both humourous and serious; she commands the stage. As the Pharaoh is the enormously talented Lorenzo Rush Jr. – his dramatic entrance is as spellbinding as his performance. He rocks the Elvis inspired role, giving off a concert vibe and even getting a mention of the Marriott’s next show in. Mr. Rush is a blessing to watch – he alone is worth the price of admission.
Many of the brothers roles are played by fabulous women that bring the guys uniquely to life, especially Marriott favorites Lillian Castillo and Leah Morrow as Reuben and Simeon, most respectively. These two ladies can tackle any role with verve. Lillian’s version of “There’s One More Angel in Heaven” is a real show stopper – her vocals are fabulous and her humor infectious; I loved the Western theme for this upbeat production number. Leah has a lovely voice and impeccable comic timing, especially during the French inspired portion of the musical, “Those Canaan Days” – she is “c’est magnifique”.
Jacob and sons are a spirited bunch, energetic and fun – George Keating, playing the patriarch, is very realistic, never over playing the part. The scene reuniting Joseph with his dad is very heartfelt – the long awaited embrace brought tears to my eyes with its sincerity. This unparalleled production is so well done, you don’t want it to end. Just when the lights go down at the end and the audience is on its feet with a well deserved standing ovation, we were treated to a finale production number that is magnificent, spirited, infectious, and full of vigor.
In the meantime, don’t miss the man with crazy dreams who is truly a star – you will drive home with a song in your heart. “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” is now playing through March 30th, so journey to www.marriotttheatre.com for tickets or more information.
