REVIEW

(pic: some of the cast taking a break in the interval)

Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

WBLets, Memorial Hall, Royal Wootton Bassett

THE youth group of Wootton Bassett Light Operatic Society won audience acclaim for their colourful, tuneful production, directed by Marion Aspell, in three performances last weekend.

The 50-strong cast clearly enjoyed their roles, and particularly outstanding performers included Citty Aspell as Joseph, Ross Bathurst as Reuben, Linus Davies in the dual roles of Jacob and Potiphar, and Lane Stow as Judah. The brothers, the Ishmaelite traders, camels, scary vultures and Egyptian guards all did full justice to their roles. Narrators Dee Dee Aspell, Kimberley Evans and Maegan Watts provided melodic links in the well-loved story..

This popular show, with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, brims with catchy songs and lively scenarios including a splendid Elvis Presley style number, a Gallic rendition of Those Canaan Days, and a Benjamin Calypso.

An accomplished ten piece band, at the rear of the stage, sometimes had too much volume for young vocal soloists to be appreciated fully, but that is a minor criticism for a show that delighted so many people.

An impressive set and effective costume, including Joseph's magnificent multi-coloured coat, enhanced enjoyment of this youth production in WBLOS's 40th anniversary year. It is good to see so many talented young people are following in the footsteps of the society's founders, offering great local entertainment.

Stella Taylor