The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors gets an energetic treatment by the talented youngsters in the Village Theatre's KIDSTAGE program in "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," playing August 14 through 23 at the Everett Performing Arts Center, 2710 Wetmore Avenue in Everett.

Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice created a score with a rich variety of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to rock 'n roll.

The cast for the local youth production includes many experienced young actors and some new faces. The production features the unique strengths of 54 talented cast members, and some roles have been expanded to offer more educational and performance opportunities.

Director Christian Duhamel employs a unique method to integrate creativity and individuality into the production while teaching the young actors valuable skills.

"We don't just tell them what to do and where to stand," he explained. "They are fully engaged in the creative process. The result is a unified cast telling a compelling story."

Cast members range in age from 8 to 18 years, and reside throughout Snohomish County. In addition to the 54 cast members, twelve students who are part of the TAP program (Teen Access to Professionals) work alongside the Village Theatre professionals building and painting scenery, constructing props, pulling and creating costumes, hanging and focusing lights, and playing alongside adult musicians in the show's orchestra.

Performances of "Joseph," which begin August 14, are held Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, August 16 and 23, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for youth and seniors, and are available online at www.villagetheatre.org.



Lindsay Jilk (Gad)_Photo by Sam Freeman._Property of Village Theatre