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‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ Takes the Stage Sept. 28-29, Oct. 3-5
The Southern Virginia University Theatre Program will present Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 28–29, and the following Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, Oct. 3–5, in Southern Virginia’s Chandler Hall.
“I really enjoy the sly lyrics by Tim Rice and all the color in this show,” said Robert Stoddard, associate professor of theatre at Southern Virginia and the show’s director. “We have a great cast — everyone can sing really well and they seem to have great energy, enthusiasm and focus during our rehearsals, which has been really wonderful for Dr. Carter [the show’s musical director] and myself to experience.”
In 1982, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” was nominated for six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score. Throughout its many Broadway and West End productions, the musical also has been nominated for awards including several categories of the Drama Desk Award and the Laurence Olivier Award.
The musical — which includes a variety of songs in different popular styles — has been performed by more than 20,000 schools and theatre groups since its first performance in 1968. It remains one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most popular shows.
“I’ve loved this show ever since I first saw it when I was 11 years old,” said Kent Melville — one of the 25 student actors in the cast — who will sing the “Song of the King” as the show’s Elvis-impersonating Pharaoh. “I’ve been amazed at how well the other actors have been able to keep up the intensity and take on such a big project. In my role, I’m looking forward to getting out of my comfort zone and showing Virginia how they rock and roll in Egypt.”
“Joseph” is back at the university by popular demand after Southern Virginia first performed the show in fall 2007. Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. — except for the performance on Saturday, Sept. 29, which will begin at 10 p.m. to accommodate those who wish to attend the general Relief Society meeting of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Additionally, unlike previous Southern Virginia productions, there will be no Saturday performance on the play’s closing weekend. This change will accommodate those who wish to attend the 182nd Semiannual General Conference of the Church.
Tickets for “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” are $8 for the general public and $6 for senior citizens and Southern Virginia students, faculty and staff. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 540–261–8405, or at the door prior to each performance.