Sierra Repertory Theatre is performing “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” at the Fallon House in Columbia through July 30.
The show puts a lively spin on a Bible story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. It’s told in a fast-packed series of vignettes and a wild mix of musical styles that whip from country swing to rock ballad to Calypso and Parisian street song.
The show is under the guidance of guest director and choreographer Dann Dunn.
“I am thrilled to be working with Sierra Repertory Theatre on this production,” Dunn said. “I’ve heard such incredible things from friends and colleagues that have worked at this theatre, and they’ve all had the same wonderful things to say in regard to the passionate work environment, friendly staff, and supportive audiences and community. Though it may be my first time with Sierra Repertory Theatre, I am no stranger to the show, as this will be my fifteenth production of ‘Joseph,’ whether as a director, choreographer or performer.
“’Joseph’ is not only one of my favorite Andrew Lloyd Webber scores, but my favorite Broadway score,” Dunn continued. “It’s a beautiful story told through catchy music, through a non-stop sung and zany collection of every genre you can think of. Whether it be Country Western, 50’s-60’s inspired, Calypso, Jazz, or Rock, this show has got you covered. From start to finish, this high-energy song and dance show will keep you wanting more, and I think we’ve assembled a great cast to deliver to the Sierra Rep audiences.”
An international sensation, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” was the first musical collaboration of legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. They originally created it for a London boys’ choir, then adapted it as a full stage production that has been wowing audiences and critics for more than four decades.
To bring this legendary music to life, SRT is welcoming back Sarah Wussow as musical director.
“I am so extremely excited to be coming back to SRT to work on “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” Wussow said. “I am looking forward to collaborating with director Dann Dunn and help see his vision come to life on stage. I love the story, I love the characters, and of course, I love the music.”
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” was a sell-out smash for Sierra Rep the two previous times it was produced, in 2000 and 2006.
Appearing for the first time at SRT and starring in the title role is New York actor Schyler Conaway.
“I am so excited to bring the role of Joseph to life at SRT, a role I have loved since seeing the national touring company back in the late 90s.”
Elizabeth McMonagle, as The Narrator, will guide the audience through Joseph’s story — the favored son who gets sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, thrown into prison and then through his gift for interpreting dreams, rises to be a powerful advisor to the Egyptian king.
Joseph has 11 brothers, all multi-talented actors/singers with several who have been on our stages previously as well as many who will be making their SRT debuts.
Other roles cast just before publication are Greg Pragel as Jacob/Potiphar, Ariel Daly as Mrs. Potiphar and Syndi Abenido and Abbey Williams-Campbell as Ensemble.
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” rated G, opened Friday and plays through July 30 at the Fallon House Theatre in Columbia State Historic Park. Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday matinees begin at 2 p.m., Friday and Saturday evening performances begin at 7 p.m., Thursday performances begin at either 2 p.m. or 7 p.m. For reservations and information, call the SRT box office at 209-532-3120, e-mail: tickets@sierrarep.org or visit the SRT website at www.sierrarep.org.
