Rodgers Memorial Theatre’s production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” running now through July 18, is almost two hours of unadulterated, foot-tapping fun. From the eager, musically adept cast to the little jokes that sneak into the edge of the bigger musical numbers, RMT’s “Joseph” offers satisfying entertainment from start to finish.
For those not familiar with the musical, “Joseph” is the classic Bible story told as a musical montage. There’s not a single spoken word in the entire production, but the cast here all have strong enough voices that the songs surge along at the high energy level required of them.
Joseph, played by Bradley Quinn Lever in Friday’s opening, had a bright, eager voice that also carried enough authority for his more serious songs. The voice of the narrator, Leni Kershisnik, was powerful enough to give me chills once or twice, and though I couldn’t figure out which of the wives sang counterpoint to “One More Angel in Heaven” (whoever you are, I apologize), was a beautiful and unexpected addition.
On other songs, the brothers threw themselves into every intentionally bad accent and dramatic stumble with a gusto that would have made any classic comedian proud. “Canaan Days,” which worked in a nod to Monty Python, was especially funny.
Even more funny, however, were the little touches put in by several of the performers. In a show entirely made of musical numbers there’s often not much room for individualizing a performance, but here nearly everyone found a place to make their mark.
One of my favorite moments came when Joseph helped a group of fellow slaves figure out that they were building a pyramid wrong. It’s tossed off moments before a far more major scene, but it’s hilarious all on its own.
As is vital for “Joseph,” all of this happens on a set that looks richly theatrically grand despite a limited size and budget. Set Designer Lester B. Lee and Prop Mistress Jackie Smith bring both a desert and the Pharaoh's palace to life, adding their own touch of magic to the highly entertaining show.


