[NEohioPAL] Unsolicited review of Mercury Summer Stock's "JOSEPH"

[mary faktor]

Dear fellow Neohiopalers:

I've enjoyed Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat many times through the years. Professionally in Chicago, Toronto and Cleveland, local community theaters, and last year at FPAC with Fred's talented kids.  But never have I witnessed such an original, creative and engaging version as that of Mercury Summer Stock's current production of "Jospeh" at Cleveland Playhouse Brooks Theatre, directed by Pierre Brault.  

The precision choreography of the large and extremely talented cast on such a tiny stage, was fascinating to watch. The entire black and white set and costumes depicting the era of silent films aptly accented the "coat of many colors," (in this case, a colorfully decorated tuxedo tail coat.) 

Every single member of the cast executed their songs and dances with an energy and enthusiasm so often obvious in those who perform merely for the pure love of performing. This is truly an ensemble show!   It was evident they were not on stage because they need the audience to love them...they are there because they love their audience.  And the crowd responded in kind with their cheers and standing ovation at show's end.

After seeing so many revivals of musicals which have been around for decades, it is so refreshing to see a creative genius like Pierre Brault breathe renewed life into old interpretations of popular shows.  A risk taker who is not afraid to imagine innovative, original concepts to shake up the stale status quo of pre-conceived staging.  His non-traditional casting is also a pleasure to witness...roles cast according to talent instead of gender, age, race or weight. 

If you want a fun, family friendly, high energy, thoroughly enjoyable evening at a totally reasonable price, make the effort to see Mercury Summer Stock's JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT.  It runs through June 26.  For tickets call 216-771-5682 or go to mercury summerstock.com.  If you want to insure a summer of quality musical comedy productions, sign on for a subscription...their upcoming season includes Li'l Abner, The Scarlet Pimpernel and Dear Edwina.  Personally, I can't wait to see what Brault has in store for us in Dogpatch!  

 SIDE NOTE: Perhaps the "powers that be" at the Cleveland Playhouse will see the quality of Mercury's productions and the popularity of their audiences and give them one of their
larger theaters next year.  


 



      
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