Christian Family Theater is staging a multigenerational musical when “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” opens Friday night, July 14, at The Colonnade in Ringgold, Ga.
‘”Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ is one of the most endearing shows of all time by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber,” says Dale Dye, director of the Christian Family Theater’s production.
The story is a fun, fresh retelling of the familiar Bible story found in the book of Genesis. A narrator tells the story of Jacob and sibling rivalry among his 12 sons.
Joseph Watts with narrators Sara Gard, Greer Caldwell and Christi Barr, from left.Joseph’s brothers are jealous of him for a coat of many colors given to him by Jacob, a symbol of their father’s preference for him believe the brothers. It is clear from Joseph’s dreams that he is destined to rule over them. So to get rid of him and prevent the dreams from coming true, they sell Joseph as a slave to some passing Ishmaelites, who take him to Egypt.
“This show will really take you for a ride,” says Dye. “It is an eclectic mix of characters and song styles including country western, power ballads, a calypso and even a rock number by the King of Egypt, who bears a striking resemblance to a king of rock ‘n’ roll.”
There is little spoken dialogue, but a lot of catchy music in the family-friendly storyline. The musical is full of unforgettable songs, including “Those Canaan Days,” “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door” and, of course, “Go, Go, Go Joseph.”
Dye describes the production as a “toe-tapping, funny, colorful and emotional journey.”
“We have a cast of 35 actors, some of which have performed with various companies and theaters in the area. Some of cast members are in their first community theater production, ” says Dye.
The title character, Joseph, is played by Joseph Watts. A trio of beautiful narrators played by Greer Caldwell, Christi Barr and Sara Gard guide the audience through the story.
The show is under the musical direction of Judy Reich with choreography by Christi Barr.
Dye suggests the musical will make a great family night out or an outing for church groups. Discount rates are available for groups of 15 or more.
For more information: 706-935-9000.
If you go
› What: “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”› Where: The Colonnade, 264 Catoosa Circle, Ringgold, Ga› When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, July 14-15 and 21-22; 3 p.m. Sundays, July 16 and 23› Admission: $13, $15, $17› For more information: 706-935-9000