|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. Mail:
Telephone:
Internet:
thresher@rice.edu |
| Lighthearted `Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat' hams it up |
|
by Daphne Gallagher
First off, it is important to establish one thing: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is not a groundbreaking musical or a serious work of art. It is lighthearted, often silly and fun. While composing this well-known musical, Andrew Lloyd Weber toyed with different musical styles, while lyricist Tim Rice threw in numerous amusing comments and rhymes. Wiess' production sticks wholeheartedly to the spirit of hamming it up, particularly in the case of the male chorus. They are very strong vocally, and often seem to be having way too much fun with their roles, offering a hysterical effect. The female chorus singers are much more subdued, though that is in large part due to their less juicy roles in the musical. Chris Ciompi (Sid Richardson College '99) is a strong male lead as Joseph and stands out with his vocal talent. The costumes were simple, though the specialized accessorizing for various scenes was quite effective. There was only one real flaw in the production: The orchestra and singers experienced extreme difficulty staying together -- they are often discordant by more than a measure. Overall, watching Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was a fun and exuberant adventure. Director Marco Rimassa (Wiess '97) has done a fine job of capturing the flippant nature of the show. Enjoy yourself and laugh a little, but do not look to become a changed person by the experience.
This item appeared in the Arts & Entertainment section of the March 21, 1997 issue. |
Copyright © 97 The Rice Thresher. All Rights
Reserved.
This document may be distributed
electronically, provided that it is distributed in its
entirety and includes this notice. However, it cannot be reprinted
without the express written permission of:
The Rice Thresher, Rice University, 6100 Main, Houston, TX 77005-1892, USA.