ENC’s Theater Department recently announced “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” for the 2017 fall musical.
Written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, this production is a rock opera, with diverse musical styles ranging from rock, to country, and even jazz. Webber is also the composer of other famous productions such as “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Jesus Christ Superstar”.
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” tells the Old Testament story of Joseph, covering his life from the time of Jacob, his father, presents him with a colorful garment until he forgives his brothers for selling him into slavery.
Assistant Professor of Theatre Tara Watkins provides insight on why this musical was chosen, as well as its history.
Watkins stated, “I always try to do shows that ENC audiences will enjoy as well as shows that will stretch our ENC performers.” This show has never been produced by our school, and Watkins would prefers performing new musicals over ones that are familiar to our campus. Furthermore, Watkins stated, “We do a musical every year for Homecoming Weekend. That’s part of the tradition and I am all for keeping beloved traditions alive.”
Though Watkins loves to keep traditions alive, she did note that there are some secrets in this production that make it unique from how it is normally produced. Furthermore, Watkins stated, “Telling the story of Joseph through musical theatre is a way for Christians to see a new interpretation of a story we are familiar with.” Watkins also stated, “It’s a way to introduce an important story of faith to people who may not know anything about it.”