Calling all StageSiders, welcome back to another review here at StageSideUK. This time, we’re talking about the Darlington Operatic Society’s vibrant production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, which took to the Darlington Hippodrome stage. This is a show bursting with colour, energy and some impressive vocal talent. So settle in, the review is about to start.
Disclaimer:
We were gifted a pair of press tickets, and a programme, in exchange for an honest review of the show.
From the prologue, this production establishes a lively and engaging tone. The set is spectacular, the technology is used well and the vocals are stunning. The band kick us off with the overture, and performed this well. From this point on, the pace rarely dips, with each number flowing seamlessly into the next, keeping the audience fully invested throughout. It’s a show that thrives on momentum, and this company clearly understands how to keep that energy alive from start to finish.
About Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a classic musical written by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. The show follows the story of Joseph, son of Jacob, who happens to be the golden child. Joseph is gifted a coat of many colours and his brothers, filled with jealous, see that his life is ruined. But all is not over for Joseph.
Both halves are only 40 minutes long, but the cast do a great job at letting moments breathe, and know exactly when to start the next number. Spectacular shows that are slick are just standard for DOS at this stage.
The Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Cast
Vocally, the production is a real triumph. A special shout-out must go to the performers playing the Narrator (Katie Spencer) and Joseph (Ben Connor), both of whom deliver standout performances. Their vocals are strong, controlled and full of character, anchoring the show. They guide the audience through the story with ease, ensuring every moment lands exactly as it should.
Spencer has a particularly hard task of setting the pace, engaging an audience and guiding the younger actors around the action.
Connor delivers the classic Osmond Joseph we all know and love, with some truly amazing musical moments and some great character work.
Pharaoh is another highlight, played by Steven Dunn, bringing fantastic character work to the stage alongside some power house vocals. It’s a role that invites bold choices, and Dunn really embraces that opportunity, adding a memorable and entertaining layer to the production.
It’s also important to celebrate the younger members of the cast, who do a brilliant job throughout. Ellebb Dickson, Grace McGuiness, Juliet Gray, Fallon Gibson, Harrison Brown, Clara Harper, Eliza Currie and Evie Procter. Their enthusiasm and energy shine through. Even the smallest of gestures is done with intention. They’re an integral part of the storytelling, and play their part really well.
Photography Credit – Scott Akoz Photography
Using Technology In Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
One of really interesting element of this production is the introduction of technology, particularly the use of a large screen and mobile phones. In most of the show, the technology works really well, helping to transport the audience across different locations and enhancing the visual storytelling. The cast use mobile phones to talk about favouritism, popularity and throw in some jokes about ebay etc. However, there are moments where it becomes more of a distraction than an asset, drawing focus away from the performers rather than supporting them. It’s a tool with clear potential, but one that could benefit from a more refined use. For example the selfies at the start felt a little clunky.
Movement in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
From a movement perspective, the choreography is solid and serves the show well, but there’s an opportunity here to push things further. In particular, the use of slow, lyrical movement during ballads is something we’re seeing more frequently across DOS productions. While effective, it starts to feel a bit familiar, and this show feels like a chance to experiment with something new, to find fresh ways of interpreting those quieter musical moments or let them breathe on their own. That is my challenge to DOS, lets see an emotional ballad without the lyrical dance in a future show.
Overall, this is a really enjoyable production of a classic musical. It’s energetic, vocally strong and clearly created with a great deal of care. This is a great show for anyone interested in musicals, theatre or just wanting to hear a good story delivered by a talented cast. Darlington Operatic Society have delivered a show that entertains and engage, and a great night at the local theatre.
Accessibility
The show includes amplified music, bright lighting and the use of a large digital screen throughout. These elements are generally well balanced, and I never found any of the elements overwhelming.
Value for Money
Our ticket to this show was free, however seats generally come in at around £26 – £30, which seems very reasonable for a show of this size and with this amount of spectacle and casting. As a local operatic production with strong performances, innovative elements and offering a great night out, this show offers great value for money.
It’s a fun, feel-good night at the theatre that showcases local talent.
Have Your Say
Have you seen DOS’ production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat? What was your favourite part? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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Featured images have been referenced and are used in line with fair usage, in the copyright act. All Photography Credit for images in this post to Scott Akoz Photography