A magical evening of rainbows, sparkles, music and performance. A real feel good show aimed at all ages which engages the audience from start to finish. If you’re looking for a show to introduce children to musicals and also be thoroughly entertained yourself, this is the show you are looking for. A fun and captivating story of love, forgiveness and triumph.
The story is superbly narrated by Christina Bianco from start to finish, with a pitch perfect vocal performance and an astonishing range, Bianco really deserved her standing ovation and rapturous applause at the end. The energy from her on stage was oozing with excitement and grit. Joined by the main man Joseph (Adam Filipe) an outstanding performance, I couldn’t take my eyes off him every time he entered the stage, his presence was certainly powerful, and his portrayal was authentic and dynamic. Matching his co-stars with his excellent vocal performance and harmonies. A huge role which he undertook seemingly with ease. Filipe was also able to show his comedic timing and expression especially within scenes with the showman himself, Pharaoh (Joe McElderry). Glitter, pizzazz and flair spring to mind when we mention McElderry as his portrayal of Pharaoh was nothing short of magnificent. Super fun to watch and reigning Egypt with power, an ego and a bit of spice.
The whole cast who are involved in this production are perfectly timed with their show stopping choreography (Matthew Rowland) which utilised this large staging wonderfully. The cast were remarkable in their performances, especially when it comes to the younger members of the cast who take on a wide variety of roles ranging from small chorus parts to larger main parts. They are spectacularly timed, word perfect, the moves are slick, and the characterisation is spot on. They absolutely hold their own amongst such a stage commanding cast.
The orchestra and their enthusiastic conductor John Rigby got the audience going, they showed that they are part of this show as a whole team. The audience were singing along and clapping to the music and the unbelievable rollercoaster of emotions it takes you on. Add in some effectual and spirited lighting (Craig Stevenson) to emote and move the scenes on and this show is staying on its huge trajectory of success.
The set design was very cleverly put together to dazzle the audience and portray the scenes beautifully. From cleverly adaptable props which could be manipulated to transform scenes, to huge static pieces which were dominating and strong. The costumes (Tom Darlington) were flawless in demonstrating the social status, setting and situation of the characters. The props served to enhance the costumes and the set wonderfully.
My only criticism of this entire production was the coat itself, although yes it was colourful and beautiful, there was no grand reveal of the colours within the coat. Compared with all the other colours on the stage, it faded sometimes in contrast. Despite this, the show was still fully deserving of the standing ovation this cast received. A fun, lively and enchanting show. I couldn’t recommend this show enough. Get yourself there!
Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat is performing until 20th July 2025 at the Liverpool Empire. Book your tickets through https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/liverpool-empire/
Reviewer: Stephanie Wiswall
Reviewed: 16th July 2025
North West End UK Rating: