Marriott Theatre’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a high-energy spectacle that dazzles with its vibrant staging and a stellar cast. The multi-colored star lights above the stage create a breathtaking atmosphere, perfectly complementing the musical’s dreamlike storytelling. Adding to the show’s emotional core is a beautifully framed narrative device: a family reading a bedtime story to their daughter, emphasizing the timeless power of passing down stories through generations.
The cast is uniformly excellent, brimming with enthusiasm and skill. The lead performances are exceptional, showcasing powerful vocals that bring Andrew Lloyd Webber’s score to life. A special mention goes to J. Tyler Whitmer, whose standout performance in the ensemble brought an extra spark to the production.
However, despite the show's many strengths, there were some puzzling creative choices. The music was often so loud that it overpowered the vocals, making it difficult to fully appreciate the lyrics—most notably in Pharaoh’s big number, which was repeated yet still left his dream indecipherable. The decision to cast half of Joseph’s brothers as women felt more distracting than innovative, and the frequent genre shifts—ranging from cowboy hoedowns to high school cheerleading to 1920s burlesque—created a jarring effect rather than a cohesive experience.
While Theresa Ham’s costumes were visually striking, the Technicolor Dreamcoat itself was a letdown. Rather than the bold, jewel-toned garment one might expect, it appeared more like a pastel-hued ladies' housecoat, paling in comparison to the stunning star lights above the stage. Additionally, the costuming for the Ishmaelites in Pharaoh’s scene was particularly perplexing. Dressed in short, gold lamé dresses that gave even male performers the appearance of breasts, their look was so bewildering that it became a major distraction—so much so that this reviewer lost track of the first half of Pharaoh’s number while trying to decipher the director’s intent.
Overall, Marriott Theatre’s Joseph is an exuberant production with much to admire, especially in its performances and visual effects. However, a few baffling design choices and overwhelming sound levels prevent it from reaching its full potential.
Running through March 30th at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire, 847-634-0200 and www.marriotttheatre.com
