Colorful ‘Joseph’ comes to Eisenhower Auditorium

It’s the musical that has wowed the world for close to five decades and inspired generations of young actors. On Feb. 13, State College will have the chance to see one of the most recognizable stage productions of all time when the touring Broadway musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” rolls into Eisenhower Auditorium.

“This slate of shows have been going along very well and I’m excited to be in State College,” said Joe Ventricelli, who plays the Pharaoh. “There has been a lot of energy and excitement and we’ve been performing to full houses pretty much every night. We are very proud to be putting on a high-quality production of such an acclaimed show.”

With lyrics from the legendary Tim Rice and music written by the equally renowned Andrew Lloyd Webber, the Feb. 13 show, presented by the Center for the Performing Arts, will be directed by Tony Award winner Andy Blankenbuehler. Having been performed in theaters and high school auditoriums all over the world since its 1970 premiere, this rock opera still possesses the power to entertain and thrill audiences.

“It really means a lot to be a part of something that is so well known and so well loved, not just in our country, but internationally,” Ventricelli said. “It’s been around for so long and is really respected and I am just delighted to be a part of such a cool experience.”

The recipe for the storied success of “Joseph” is well documented and the performers are fully aware of the legacy that they have been tasked with upholding. For many actors, landing a role in this production is often their first stage credit. While there is always room for something new, this current cast will be sure to adhere to the traditions that have made “Joseph” so special.

“We are certainly using the original material in terms of music, however our choreographer has a more hip-hop dance style which adds even more life to the show and enhances the story telling, which we all think is pretty cool,” Ventricelli explained.

This production has long been a stalwart of the stage and an oracle of originality. The kaleidoscope of colors and music numbers are instant identifiers of “Joseph.” Actors like Ventricelli relish in the opportunity of being able to perform in a show that is vastly unique and different from its peers.

“This show really spans so many different genres, everything from a western number, an Elvis and Vegas thing, a reggae number and this is what makes it so cool,” Ventricelli said. “Combining all of these genres really makes it stand out.”

The musical is based on a story from the Book of Genesis, portraying Joseph, who is eventually sold into slavery by his brothers. Songs in the family-friendly touring Broadway production include “Go Go Joseph,” “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door” and “One More Angel in Heaven.” Audiences have been singing and clapping along throughout the tour and State College is sure to follow their lead.

“It’s a story about family and forgiveness and these are themes that will always resonate with everyone,” Ventricelli said. “The show itself has an extremely high energy and maintains its excitement at all points. Kids, parents and grandparents have all enjoyed the show and I think that they really love being a part of it. It’s certainly a gift to be performing for them and I love sharing that with the audience.”

This story was originally published February 11, 2016 at 12:37 PM with the headline "Colorful ‘Joseph’ comes to Eisenhower Auditorium."