When it comes to dreamers, we are the lucky ones. This statement sings true after viewing this year’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. The Hempfield Area rendition brought color, energy, and collaboration to the stage. Directed by a top-notch team, the musical was the fulfillment of a promise between co-directors Mrs. Comm and Mr. Gilbert.
The auditorium was transformed into a rainbow of color and energy as students in grades 2-12 were featured on the stage and even in the aisles, highlighting the talent and teamwork within our school community.
The story follows the Biblical Joseph and his journey to Egypt. Our directing staff made the bold choice to divide the narrator role into three parts. This increased the vocal range and dynamics on stage as Marlee Olson, Mia Catone, and Elena Falo delivered charismatic performances.
Noteworthy, were the brothers, who did an incredible job appearing as a single unit and separated entities simultaneously. From dance to playful chemistry to impressively drawn out vocal notes, this team kept the energy high and the laughter rolling. And then there was Joseph, Eli Karnash, who decorated the stage with his presence and of course, his multi-colored coat.
This coat, an impressive spectacle, took three months for Mrs. Stewart and her team, to design and build. This, along with dynamic lighting, immaculate sets, and crew work, made the hour and a half a dazzling experience.
Moreover, it was the mix of musical styles, from pop to the Elvis inspired rock in “Song of the King” delivered by hip-swaying Patrick Krueger, the students embraced every genre with confidence that had the audience dancing along.
A special shout out to the orchestra that played from start to finish. Pitt Director, Mr. Emanuelson says the array of music that starts with the Overture “builds up the story as something magnificent…” lending “a little pomp and luxuriousness to the museum setting we choose for the story.”
Despite challenges like winter weather cancellations and a tighter rehearsal schedule due to the band trip in Hawaii, the cast and crew worked hard to bring the show to life.
Mrs. Kertoy, show choreographer, says she is “especially proud of how the students supported one another and truly became a family” on a stage of many colors.
