"A Re-imagined Joseph: A Performer’s TAKE on the New UK Tour"

As an actor with over 25 years of experience, having played the role of Joseph no fewer than seven times in the past two decades, I’ve developed a deep connection to the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. So, when the opportunity arose to review the new UK touring production at the Grand Opera House in Belfast last night, I was eager to see how this latest incarnation of the show would innovate while honoring the classic elements that have made it a beloved staple for decades.

The production, led by a talented cast and refreshed by some interesting creative choices, certainly brought new energy to the stage. While there were changes, some of which worked beautifully, others in my humble opinion need a little more refinement to achieve their full potential. Below is my take on the current show through the lens of a performer who has had the pleasure of stepping into Joseph’s shoes more than once.

The heart of this production lies in the portrayal of Joseph, played by Adam Filipe. Having had the privilege of performing the role myself, I watched Filipe with particular attention to how he approached this iconic character. Filipe’s Joseph was charming, earnest, and layered with emotional depth. Unlike some previous portrayals where Joseph can sometimes come across as overly heroic or perfect, Filipe’s interpretation felt grounded. He was more than just the “dreamer” — his Joseph was deeply human, very proper in voice and song, there were great moments and needed emotional growth.

In songs like Close Every Door, Filipe’s voice soared, and his performance added a layer of poignancy that I haven’t always seen in the role. He brought a subtle vulnerability to Joseph’s journey, which resonated deeply with me as a fellow performer who has explored these themes onstage many times. It’s always a delicate balance to show Joseph’s optimism without losing the sincerity of his struggles, and Filipe achieved that . His journey through the trials and triumphs of Joseph’s story felt relatable and personal though I do wish there was more contrast, I really wanted him to be evil and let rip on the brothers in act 2.

The Narrator, played by Christina Bianco, added a wonderful dynamic to the show. Bianco, known for her impressions, versatility and vocal prowess, brought an engaging warmth and energy to the role. Her performance was not just a guide through the story, but also a character in her own right, using her humor and personality to connect with both the audience and the other characters. Bianco’s voice, as always, was impeccable, and she brought a freshness to the role, making it feel more vibrant and connected to the emotional core of the narrative. Her interactions with Joseph were effective, giving the story an additional layer of emotional depth. I do question the doubling up on roles as Jacob and Mrs Potiphar, wasn't expecting this as Jacob is typically such a crucial character in the story. I'm on the fence, let me know your thoughts when you see it.

I actually interviewed Christina ahead of seeing the show - this was featured in the last issue of GNI MAG - you can check it out via this link https://issuu.com/lambpromotions/docs/gni_issue_65_online/11

Joe McElderry, playing Pharaoh, was one of the standout surprises of the evening. Known for winning The X Factor and his subsequent stage career, McElderry brought a playful energy to the role. His Pharaoh felt both comedic and confident, with a touch of modern sensibility that worked well for this production. His comedic timing was spot-on, and he brought a new level of fun to the character without losing the flamboyance that we expect from Pharaoh. His energy lit up the stage and brought the audience to life, making his scenes a true joy to watch.

The ensemble, as always, provided fantastic support, with the brothers performing with the right amount of energy and characterization to support Joseph's journey. Their harmonies in numbers like Go, Go, Go Joseph and Any Dream Will Do were tight and powerful, contributing to the overall strength of the production.

The music of Joseph is, of course, one of the most enduring elements of the show, and this production does a wonderful job of keeping that magic alive while adding some modern touches. The arrangements of classic songs like Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door, and Joseph’s Coat were familiar but with subtle updates that made them feel more contemporary. The use of brass instruments, particularly in Joseph’s Coat, added a jazzy, upbeat quality that invigorated the show, making it feel current without losing its charm.

However, at times, I did feel that the updated orchestration could have been slightly dialed back, particularly in the larger ensemble numbers like Any Dream Will Do. While the music was undoubtedly vibrant and lively, at moments the instrumental backing felt overpowering, slightly detracting from the clarity of the vocals. As a performer who’s spent a lot of time singing these songs, I felt that some of the moments of subtlety, where the lyrics need to come through clearly, got a little buried under the force of the music.

That being said, the arrangement in Close Every Door was simply stunning. The dramatic shift in instrumentation allowed the emotional weight of Joseph’s darkest moments to truly come through, and Filipe’s performance in this number benefited from that space, creating a raw and deeply resonant moment in the show.

The choreography in this production has clearly evolved from previous versions. While there are still nods to traditional movements, the dance routines have been reimagined with a more contemporary style, incorporating elements of jazz, pop, and even a Tap and bit of hip-hop. The Tap number for me was a real treat, unexpected and really well executed, with the ensemble providing vibrant and energetic movements that enhanced the excitement of the scene.

The choreography is tight and fast-paced, and while it’s exciting, there were moments when the speed of the movements slightly hindered the clarity of the story. In a show like Joseph, where the connection between the characters and the audience is so crucial, there were times when the choreography — especially in larger, more complex group numbers — made it a bit difficult to focus on the emotional depth of the moment. It’s always a balance, and while I appreciated the modern energy in the dance, perhaps slowing it down in a few key moments could allow the storytelling to breathe more effectively.

The set design is dynamic and contemporary, blending minimalist structures with bold, vibrant projections that shift seamlessly to create the different settings. The use of LED screens and creative lighting enhances the storytelling, making each scene feel fresh and immersive.

One of the standout visual moments is undoubtedly Pharaoh’s entrance. Bathed in dazzling gold, the entire stage transforms into a shimmering spectacle, evoking the grandeur and opulence of ancient Egypt while adding a Vegas-style extravagance. The golden lighting, metallic costumes, and reflective set pieces make this moment truly impactful, ensuring Pharaoh’s presence is both commanding and memorable.

Scene transitions are smooth and cleverly executed, maintaining the fast-paced energy of the production. The lighting design plays a crucial role in distinguishing different moods and locations, from the warm, earthy tones of Canaan to the cold, harsh blues of Joseph’s imprisonment. The dream sequences are particularly well-handled, with swirling colors and ethereal lighting effects that enhance the fantastical elements of the story.

Final Thoughts - This new UK touring production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a thrilling reinvention of the classic, injecting fresh energy into a show that has endured for decades. The cast, led by Adam Filipe, Christina Bianco, and Joe McElderry, brings a contemporary yet faithful portrayal of the characters we’ve come to love. While there are some adjustments — particularly in song tempo and style — this production succeeds in offering a new experience that is both fresh and exciting.

As a performer who has spent many years in the role of Joseph, I’m excited to see how the character continues to evolve in new productions like this one. Joseph is a show that has stood the test of time, and this tour proves that it still has the power to captivate audiences while staying relevant in a modern theatrical landscape. The energy, heart, and bold choices in this version ensure that Joseph will continue to inspire both old and new fans for years to come.

You only have until Saturday to catch the show in Belfast's Grand Opera House, you can snap up last reamining tickets via goh.co.uk