The North Fork Community Theatre has long been known for bringing a wealth of theatrical treasures to its stage -- and its most recent production, "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," is a must-see gem.
The show, with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Weber, will run through March 24. Performance times are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. A pre-show reception will be held on March 14 and 21.
Directed by Jessica Raven, with musical direction by Jen Czartosieski, and produced by Mary Motto Kalich, "Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" is a classic -- and brings an all-out infusion of joy to the audience.
Energy abounds from the moment the show opens, featuring a talented cast that performs with passion, talent -- and some of the finest vocals heard on the North Fork in any season.
"The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable," a description of the show on NFTC's ticket site, Brown Paper Tickets, states. "Joseph, his father's favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged. Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock 'n' roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless."
The show is not only a moving story of redemption and ultimate reunion and renewal, which sends out a positive, family-friendly and inspirational message about the deep bonds that bind humanity -- but it's uproariously funny, with spot-on delivery and impeccable timing that has audience members literally laughing out loud.
Stand-out performances abound: Brett Chizever shines as Joseph, with a flawless performance and vocals that left audiences buzzing during intermission. His adaptation of the character was infused with sincerity, enthusiasm and comedic moments -- and his ability to connect with the cast, even the youngest members -- to recreate the Biblical story set the bar for future actors donning the brightly colored robe.
As Jacob, Dave Markel was able to portray with a single glance or facial gesture both moments of hilarity and deep anguish, when he learned that his beloved Joseph was gone forever.
Narrators Sydney Campbell and Becca Mincieli posed perfect counterparts, balancing Campbell's sass with Mincieli's wide-eyed blend of innocence and sagacity; both pack powerhouse vocal performances.
Bill Kitzerow presents a masterful Pharoah -- when he's not doing a lip-curling, rolicking imitation of Elvis -- and performances by Joseph's band of brothers, including John Scully, Eric Hughes, Michael Hipp, Stephen Loquet, Steve Brickman, James Fink, John Lovett, Ken Rowland, Mark Sisson, and Eric Lopez, are delightful not only due to the humor that colors every scene -- but in the palpable array of human emotions, including jealousy, rage, humor, loss and joy -- the team of talented actors is able to mutually convey.
Both the female chorus and an adorable children's chorus -- including an adorable Peter John Gwiazda, whose appearance in a sheep costume had an audience enraptured -- add a childish joy and innocence to a show that epitomizes family values, faith, inspiration and hope -- a reminder that theater can uplift, even during the darkest of times.
"Joseph" is the perfect family show -- although it appeals to children, it also touches the childish wonder and sense of possibility that lives inside even the most hardened audience member. Don't miss it.
Tickets cost $20 and can be purchased by clicking here or by calling 631-298-NFTC.
