The School of Theatre and Dance is embarking on an exciting new journey as it approaches the opening weekend of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
The show is being directed at Millikin by Kevin Long and music directed by Beth Creighton. It also features choreography by faculty member Angela Miller, with assistant choreography by Junior BFA Musical Theatre Mia Orr.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat retells the biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, and his 11 brothers. The show explores themes of family, forgiveness, and dreams.
It also features a diverse handful of musical romps, including French ballads, Elvis-inspired rock and roll, and one impressive mega-mix packed with over 8 straight minutes of song and dance.
Sophomore BFA Musical Theatre major Croix Baker plays the titular role of Joseph.
“Since college, this has been my first lead role,” he said. “So it’s been a huge undertaking, but it’s such a fulfilling experience. Everyone’s been working super hard and on top of their stuff, very professional. It’s good to know that the work I’m putting in is appreciated and I get to appreciate my colleague’s work, as well.”
Baker went on to describe the most enjoyable aspects of the rehearsal process and his personal favorite part of the show.
“Everyone is just excited and pumped to be there, to go create art,” he said. “It would be kind of criminal for me not to say ‘Close Every Door’ is my favorite thing to do in the show. It’s such an iconic song, and there are so many different renditions. Creating my own that feels special and authentic to me has been really fun.”
Setting it apart from the rest of this season’s productions, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat features a children’s ensemble.
Kids from the Decatur Youth Chorale perform alongside the collegiate ensemble, as well as a few local high school students.
“Working with the kids is really fun,” Baker said. “It always provides this sense of life into the rehearsal space, just with their energy. They’ve been so hardworking and professional. When we say hold in rehearsal, they are silent. Maybe more silent than the college kids.”
At first glance, this musical looks entirely like a light-hearted escapade, which, at most times, it is, but audience members may find that the story hits closer to home than expected.
“It’s such an important message and story,” Baker said. “It explores family, the feeling of worth and forgiveness, and I think those are all so important. The world’s crazy right now, and I think this is a really great reminder of what the core values of life should be. I can’t wait for everyone to see it.”
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat runs 90 minutes with a 15-minute intermission. The show will run at the Kirkland Fine Arts Center (1215 W. Kirkland Drive).
Show dates include Friday, April 11th at 7:30 pm, Saturday, April 12th at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, April 13th at 2:00 pm.
Tickets for the general public are $20. Millikin students can use their student ID to pick up a free ticket at the Kirkland Box Office. The box office is open Tuesday-Friday from 12:00 pm-4:30 pm.
