A twenty-first century Dreamcoat

Craig Chalmers is the perfect Joseph, writes Nige Burton

Currently wowing audiences up and down the country is Bill Kenwright’s touring production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, with the current stopover being at Blackpool’s famous Grand Theatre. It’s one of those musicals which has had a distinguished pedigree of stars taking the lead, not least Jason Donovan, Philip Schofield and Aled Jones. This makes it a tough role to crack, as each Joseph has to bring the right degree of humour, pathos and presence to a production which must satisfy an unprecedented range of audience ages for a popular musical. Kenwright’s choice of Craig Chalmers is a touch of pure genius.

Chalmers invests the character with such personality, adding those beautiful touches of fun just at the right moment, while never for a second losing the emotion needed to bring the best out of the Lloyd Webber / Rice songbook with his powerful, melodic voice. The handsome twenty-eight year old has the audience in his thrall from the moment he steps onto the stage, lighting up every corner of the show right through to the final curtain – surely his next stop must be a major West End production. This guy loves his job, and the enthusiasm shines through his every move, as he delivers hit after hit with consummate ease.

Amply supported by a superb company, notably Rachael Louise Miller who makes a stunning Narrator and Scott Cripps as the rocking Pharaoh, Craig leads this slick production with an expertise often attributed to more veteran performers. The staging is brilliant, with just enough subtle developments to the property to keep it fresh and alive, while Kenwright’s direction is tight to the point of perfection.

This Joseph is an absolute delight, and manages to bring a new vitality to a much loved evergreen. Miss it at your peril!

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is currently playing at the Grand Theatre, Blackpool until Sunday 23 August. Visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Click here for the National Tour dates.

2 Responses to “A twenty-first century Dreamcoat”

1. Lee says:

   August 11, 2009 at 9:55 am

   I was searching for information about Craig and found you guys! – Craig really does amaze, a true dark horse… also have to agree with you that the Narrator plays an amazing role in the show – great show!!
2. cheryl says:

   November 8, 2009 at 7:37 pm

   i am desperatly trying to obtain a copy of the amazing technicolour dream coat staring jason donovon as a christmas present for my mum. she did have a copy but has worn it out, please can anyone help. she has donny osmonds one but doesnt like it thank you so much

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