Any Dream Will Do

Any Dream Will Do is an apt song indeed for the new lead in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's jubilant musical. The reality TV casting of Lee Mead as Joseph initially caused consternation but happily his triumphant turn as the eponymous hero amply vindicates his selection. He's absolutely terrific and so is the show: a gloriously camp, colourful kitsch confection that fizzes with vitality and witty self parody.

Taking its inspiration from Steven Pimlott's original production of 1991 this Joseph is a visual treat, not because of any spectacular set but the combination of striking costumes, Joseph's dazzling coat and the indefatigable energy of a great cast creates a colourful dynamism that's very engaging.

Despite all its froth, the show has considerable panache and its irreverent Biblical humour is great fun; whether it's the talking camel lamenting 'poor, poor Joseph' as our hero is ensnared by Egyptian servitude or the wonderful Elvis Pharaoh (Dean Collinson) declaiming his disturbing dream to a bemused audience in true rock'n'roll fashion. Lee's powerful, persuasive rendition of Close Every Door is particularly good, his vocal strength more impressive than that of Bombay Dreams star Preeya Kalidas who brings glamour to her role as the Narrator; she has a good voice but it edges towards the shrill when aiming for the high notes.

After several earlier performances beset by technical hitches, the show whizzes along with admirable alacrity, an amusing blend of musical styles encompassing calypso, pop, and even a Parisian café melody in its eclectic repertoire. A children's choir frames the stage, their presence harking back to the musical's first appearance in 1968 as a 15 minute school piece and the show happily retains its mass appeal decades later. Joseph fully delivers the sort of feel-good factor one would anticipate and its rousing finale offers the best sort of crowd-pleasing entertainment. Go Go Go Joseph indeed!