BritishTheatre.com

What is Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat about?

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's joyful retelling of the biblical story of Joseph follows a young man whose gift for interpreting dreams takes him on a journey from his father's favourite son to a slave in Egypt to the Pharaoh's right-hand man. Along the way, his eleven jealous brothers, a fabulous coat of many colours, and an Elvis-inspired Pharaoh create one of the most entertaining shows in musical theatre history.

Why see Joseph?

Joseph is pure theatrical fun. The show packs an extraordinary variety of musical styles into a compact running time: country and western (One More Angel in Heaven), calypso (Benjamin Calypso), French chanson (Those Canaan Days), rock and roll (Song of the King), and the showstopping Any Dream Will Do and Close Every Door. The narration holds the whole story together with wit and warmth. Productions consistently cast charismatic leads who bring the house down, and the audience participation is infectious.

Practical information for visitors

Joseph plays regularly in the West End and on UK tour. Check current listings for venue and dates. The show is suitable for all ages and is one of the best introductions to musical theatre for children. The running time is approximately two hours including an interval, making it manageable for younger audiences.

Similar shows you might enjoy

For more Lloyd Webber, Jesus Christ Superstar is the companion piece from the same writers. The Smartest Giant in Town is ideal for very young children. Matilda the Musical offers another family-friendly West End classic.