LEHI — Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, one of Utah’s most beloved musicals, returns with color and energy thanks to the Lehi Arts Council, now playing at Skyridge High School. With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, the story of Joseph from the book of Genesis is brought to life with modern twists–including some country-western twang and even a surprise visit from Elvis. This colorful production proves that Joseph’s story is as fresh and exciting as ever, under the direction of Cali Wilkes, with music direction by Courtney Knight and choreography by Kelsey Phillips Harrison.
Director Cali Wilkes does a fabulous job at balancing the silliness and sincerity, leaning into comedic moments when they arise and allowing the tender ones to shine. The inclusion of modern touches like Swig cups, Chick-Fil-A nuggets, and Crumbl cookies (yes, in a famine!) are hilarious and clever. It’s clear Wilkes has a strong grasp on both the material and her audience, highlighting all the right moments of humor without losing the heart of the story.
Photo by Kim Fillmore
The cast is impressively large, yet the stage never feels chaotic – a major feat considering much of the ensemble remains on stage throughout the entire show. I also appreciated that despite it being a large cast, it feels like each actor is essential to the storytelling. The Children’s Choir, often treated as a cute ornament on the side of the stage, is integrated meaningfully into the story as they actually interacted with Joseph and the set. Shoutout to the mini Elvis reenacting the dream – it is pure gold. The Children’s Choir was so polished that my husband genuinely thought they were lip-syncing.
Music director Courtney Knight works magic with the vocals. Every harmony hits and the whole ensemble blends beautifully. Such crisp vocals in a large cast is no small accomplishment, and the payoff is clear in every number.
Photo by Kim Fillmore
Kelsey Phillips Harrison’s choreography is nothing short of phenomenal. It’s a major flex to choreograph for a cast this big and have every performer not only remember, but own their choreography. And to be clear: this was no simplified community-theater movement. Harrison incorporates toe touches, front flips, and other high-energy stunts, especially among the male ensemble. The choreography looked like so much fun, it made me want to get up and join in – and I’m not a dancer, so that’s saying something. One particularly clever touch is the use of sign language to spell out the colors in Joseph’s coat.
The set, designed by Kurt Elison, and props, designed by Derrick Cain, are minimal yet effective. The grand curtain reveal of the pyramid at the start of the show creates an immediate sense of spectacle. Shelby Revill’s costumes complement the show’s tone perfectly with tasteful splashes of color.
Mason Askeroth-Watts (Joseph) has super crisp vocals and brings a level of humility and kindness to Joseph that makes him incredibly charming; a Joseph you root for from start to finish.
Photo by Kim Fillmore
The Narrators, Riley Anderson, Hadley Cirne, and Madison Bowman, all blend beautifully and hit every harmony spot on. Anderson has a powerful belt and tender presence, especially in scenes with the Children’s Choir. Cirne’s voice adds lovely balance and an angelic tone. Bowman stands out with excellent diction and a bold, sassy presence.
The brothers are a true ensemble highlight. Joseph relies heavily on the strength and chemistry of this group, and this cast delivers one of the best brother ensembles I’ve seen. Each actor makes distinct, committed character choices and works in unison to tell the story. Kalin Taylor (Judah) shines as he riffs and shimmies with Joseph in “Benjamin Calypso.” Cameron Churchill (Reuben) bringa a commanding stage presence and consistent energy to every scene.
I can’t decide if I enjoy AJ Rindlisbacher (Pharaoh/Baker) more as the Pharaoh or the Baker. Despite the Baker’s brief stage time, Rindlisbacher gives a full, engaging performance. I could not have been more surprised to learn that he was also Pharaoh because of how specific and distinct his stage presence is for each character. From quirky to iconic, he gives it everything.
Photo by Kim Fillmore
Throughout the performance, I had to keep reminding myself this was community theater. The quality rivaled professional productions in vocal execution, choreography, and storytelling. Lehi Arts has a reputation for excellence, and this show is a shining example of why. I highly recommend catching this production—and I’m already texting my sisters to plan a second trip. They deserve to see it, and honestly, so do you.
