Youth theater troupe puts its own mark on 'Joseph'

Sibling rivalry, dreams of grandeur, second chances. Sounds like the plot to any good soap opera.

However, in this case, it is the basis of Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" and the Christian Youth Theater's latest production.

The thespian group performs the Old Testament tale of Joseph and his brothers at Cutting Hall in Palatine. Christian Youth Theater, a nonprofit educational theater arts program for students 6 to 18, peppers in a few differences in the Donny Osmond special.

"We've revised things a bit since Donny Osmond played Joseph," said Marina Sterner, the show's director. "One change is how Potiphar's wife seduces Joseph. Because this is a youth production, we convey interest in Joseph, rather than seduction. We do it comically by having the character, who is a gymnast, lunge out into dive rolls as she chases Joseph."

Another difference is the attempt to rally the play into more biblical terms, while still being cognizant of copyright issues. This is achieved through slight changes in words and mannerisms.

"The message of the musical in its original text is found in song lyrics like 'anyone can make it if they get a lucky break,' " said Tom Conry, who plays the part of Joseph. "We're trying to convey a more biblical message by going with 'anyone can make it if God is on their side.' "

Conry, an 18-year-old senior, had been living in Streamwood and performing with the group for several years before he moved to Wisconsin. He now makes the two-hour trek from Wisconsin to Palatine and stays with friends on the weekends to participate in this show. However, that has not been his biggest challenge.

"My biggest challenge is staying in shape and working out," Conry said. "I have to wear very little clothing during most of it. Acting-wise, there's no problem. It flows well because the cast members mesh and play off of each other."

Conry said he referred to the Bible for help and inspiration. It appears to have paid off.

"He studied the Book of Genesis and the story of Joseph," said Sterner. "That really helped him recreate the feelings and mannerisms to portray Joseph as he would respond."

As for Sterner, her biggest challenge involved managing the cast.

"It's difficult with a cast of 96 members," she said. "Usually you'll have 40 to 50. It is a challenge to make sure everyone has stage time and is having fun."

The high-energy two-hour performance will have one intermission break. Costumes are where the whole technicolor aspect comes in. Every thread is a bright shade, with Joseph's coat over the top. Most reflect biblical times. However, there are some '60s psychedelic outfits. Sets had to accommodate the large cast, with a pyramid the main staple.

If you go

What: "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," produced by Christian Youth Theater

When: 7 p.m. Friday; 2 and 6 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; also plays 7 p.m. May 30; 2 and 6 p.m. May 31-June 1

Where: Cutting Hall, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine

Tickets: $9-$12 advance; $2 more at door

Call: (847) 516-2298 or www.cytchicago.org