Joseph may sing ‘Any Dream Will Do’ but I disagree – tonight, I hope I’m dreaming about the spectacle that is Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. After a spectacular evening at Birmingham’s Hippodrome, it’s safe to say Andrew Lloyd Webber and TimeRice’s iconic musical will continue hitting theatres for many years to come. 

Originally written to be performed at schools, my first experience with the show happened to be watching my sister’s primary school production of it when I was a young child. I don’t remember much of the performance itself, but the image of Joseph’s multicoloured coat remained. So, when I got the opportunity to see this beloved musical at the Hippodrome, that’s lived on stage for nearly 50 years, I couldn’t pass it up. 

The musical is a reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph. Act One opens with the Narrator (Christina Bianco), who almost plays the role of a schoolteacher. We watch as she educates the children around her – as well as the audience – by telling the story of Joseph (Adam Filipe) being sold into slavery by his jealous older brothers. It’s a simple but charming premise. 

Christina Bianco was simply made to be on stage. Her exceptional voice and storytelling abilities demanded your attention: there couldn’t have been a better Narrator. Bianco further supports the show in ensuring it was simple to follow along with – she pulls you in and engages you, communicating the story directly to you through her captivating presence. You don’t find yourself getting lost within the plot.

One of the most memorable parts of the production is the staging. Every inch of the set shines. Full of vibrant colours, eye-catching costumes, and cool props. The scene changes flow effortlessly, making the experience even easier to follow along with and appreciate. Furthermore, the choreography of the production is a standout, there’s consistent high-energy dancing throughout. A personal favourite for me was ‘Those Canaan Days’, when the melancholy song is unexpectedly (and hilariously) interrupted by can-can dancers. 

Now onto arguably the star of the show: Joseph. Adam Filipe highlighted the duality of the story through his portrayal of Joseph – adding an emotional depth to the character. As entertaining as the musical is, it’s also a tragic tale of a young man sold into slavery. Filipe’s breathtaking performance of ‘Close Every Door To Me’ reflected the vulnerability of Joseph, capturing his despair through his powerful voice. Filipe’s performance successfully showed audiences that this isn’t just a funny musical – it is also a story about hope, struggle, and forgiveness. 

While the musical feels like it fell straight out of biblical times, it combines that with pop-culture playfulness. Notably, the opening of Act Two where we are introduced to Pharaoh (Matt Slack). Pharaoh gives an Elvis Presley style performance with ‘Song Of The King’, the performance is pure comedy – reflected through the energy of the audience, who were clapping along with nothing but joy. As someone who grew up watching Matt Slack in Birmingham’s pantomimes, it was great to watch him channel his comedic brilliance in a different kind of role. He gave an impressive performance, engaging the audience throughout with hints of his pantomime persona that we all know and love. 

Overall, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a beautifully performed and produced show. It’s a high-energy and fun musical for all ages – with a cast that radiates pure talent and a production full of creativity. You don’t want to miss it. Maybe like me you’ll find yourself scrambling to remember every single colour of Joseph’s coat sang in the closing Megamix.

Rating: 4/5

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