By Johnnie-Margaret McConnell
This review's title is not sensationalized to get you to read beyond the first paragraph. Gerry McInytre, Lyric's guest director and choreographer for "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," is amazing.
McIntyre's direction lives up to the energetic and quick-tempo intended by Tim Rice (lyrics) and Andrew Lloyd Webber's (book) 1968 musical. The 85 participating Lyric academy students only pushed the storyline's speed and liveliness.
These future stars enter the show from the audience wings in colored T-shirts and white shorts. The kids form a spectrum of color across stage front, perfectly spelling out ROY G BIV. Norman's own Kevin Smith, who many of you know from his work with local children at the Sooner Theatre, leads this very well disciplined youth chorus.
Joseph is based on the Old Testament story of Jacob giving his favored son Joseph a coat of many colors. The jealousy that ensues from Joseph's 11 brothers sends Joseph into exile and through American 20th-century musical genres.
McIntyre, who played Judah in the 1999 movie version staring Donny Osmond, has developed a cast capable of turning this reviewer's opinion favorable about the musical.
McIntyre's leads are no strangers to the spotlight. Diana DeGarmo (narrator) and Anthony Dedorov (Joseph) were American Idol finalists. Dedorov does not overplay Joseph, but lets him follow the storyline as a willing participant-observer. DeGarmo has excellent stage presence, but at times was difficult to understand Tuesday night due to some oversized earrings hitting her mic.
McIntrye's choreography was so spirited and inventive, I'll admit I tried to duplicate a few of his moves as I danced into the streets Tuesday night. Cast members danced where you would expect, but their moves have an extra twist to throw you off and catch your attention.
"One More Angel in Heaven/Hoedown" is a striking scene. Imagine electrified southwest colored cacti and a blazing sunset. The dancing between Joseph's brothers and their wives is equally electrifying thanks to Brent Goble's country accent lead.
Most scenes have a similarly encapsulated iconic portrayal. Joseph's first meeting of Potiphar is set among three, suspended, metal triangles symbolizing Egypt as all wear outfits that would be more appropriate for 1950s sci-fi films.
The first act ends with chorus members singing "Go, Go, Go Joseph." Eloise Kropp performed as the standout turquoise, blond haired go-go dancer with high kicks and a shake you can't ignore.
While Joseph's first act clipped along, the second act flew.
"Pharaoh's Dream Explain-ed" shows just how awesome McIntyre's talents are as a director and choreographer. The King is flanked with Egyptian women and men, complete with a cheerleading pair. They move about with the stereotypical Egyptian frozen poses that morph back and forth between twisting hips, rolling shoulders and flicking wrists. This number is the most well known, but McIntyre's direction is exhilarating.
McIntyre's direction has created a show that is a must see for all.
Joseph runs through today at the Civic Center Music Hall in downtown Oklahoma City. Tickets are priced from $28 to $55. Senior discounts (ages 65+), student discounts (ages 18 and under), and group discounts (20+) also are available. Show times are 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. today. For tickets, visit www.LyricTheatreOKC.com, call 524-9312 or 1-800-364-7111, or visit the box office at 1727 NW 16th St in Oklahoma City.
Lyric opens its third summer season show August 4 with "The Producers."
