'Joseph' production is family affair
More than 80 community members have volunteered their time and talent to the upcoming production of the family musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, scheduled for three performances this weekend.
The play, sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and supported by community volunteers and the drama department at Greenbrier High School, will be performed at 7 p.m. Friday and at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday.
After months of preparation, cast members from different faiths and backgrounds will lead the audience through a musical version of the life of Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers, as told in Genesis.
Director Anna Molgard describes the play as a rock opera featuring a variety of musical styles and songs but no dialogue.
"The music is very diverse, upbeat and fun," she said.
Although the music is often light-hearted, the production has a serious message, said publicity director Tina Jones.
"The story tells a powerful tale of what envy and greed can do, as well as how forgiveness can heal," she said.
With a cast ranging in age from 8 to 50, the production is a family affair. Several cast members consist of father, son, mother, daughter and even entire families performing together, Jones said.
Rob Forbes, who performs with his 15-year-old daughter, Stephanie, said they have enjoyed the chance to act in the same production.
Heather Debuck, as the narrator, is in the play with two of her children, Mickenzi, 15, and Emberly, 11.
"We wanted to be in something together, and this has been fantastic," Debuck said.
Greenbrier drama students are excited about the upcoming production and are using it to sharpen their skills, said drama director Steven Hansen.
"I look at every performance opportunity as a chance for my students to improve their acting skills," said Hansen, who overseas students as they participate in community events such as camps, plays, dessert theaters and children's productions.
"We are a dynamic organization that is always looking for performance opportunities for our students," he said. "I hope they learn a sense of community, passion for American culture, how to work professionally as a team building relationships instead of adversity and a love of the theater."
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, with lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, will be held at the Greenbrier High School auditorium, 5114 Riverwood Parkway. Tickets cost $5 in advance or $6 at the door. For ticket information, contact amazingcoat@hotmail.com.