Any dream come true
1:15pm Wednesday 23rd January 2008
For two of the Josephs from the BBC's Any Dream Will Do show, the dream has become a reality in spite of failing to win the ultimate prize, and they're currently proving their Joseph credentials in Malvern, where the touring production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat plays until Saturday.
Craig Chalmers, who made it to the final five on TV, wears the loincloth, while fellow finalist Chris Barton appears in the role of the narrator, and from the reception the packed Malvern audience gave them you could be forgiven for thinking they'd won the show.
But at heart this is an ensemble show offering high-octane family entertainment, packed with spectacle and instantly recognisable songs all delivered at a cracking pace, and this production delivers it all in spades. Everybody sang their socks off and, in Craig's case, most of the rest of his clothes to reveal a physique made for a loincloth - gorgeous' was one verdict my daughter and I overheard, as we headed out into the night duetting loudly on Bring Me My Coloured Coat.
Joseph is the perfect show for all the family - fabulous glitz, energy levels off the scale, instantly recognisable songs and a plot that, though slight, provides a great framework for all the rest.
Anyone who's already got tickets is in for a treat but there is limited availability for matinees today, tomorrow and Saturday, with all evening performances sold out. For ticket availability, call the box office on 01684 892277 or click on the link below.