The Tualatin High School Performing Arts departments have been very busy preparing for the performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, which will debut May 13. This musical comedy was created by the theatre powerhouse team, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. The story is based on the “coat of many colors” tale of Jospeh from the Bible’s Book of Genesis.
This production promises to deliver a powerful punch of color, energy and lights with over 60 performers singing or playing tunes from all genres. So for all of you who have seen past performances of Joseph…be prepared to be wowed by this particular production. This musical delivers a different interpretation of the show. Jenn Hunter Tindle, the theatre teacher at Tualatin High School and director of the play says, “Traditionally, it is set in biblical Egypt, but this production is not going to look like that. We have made it look like a rock concert. There will be costumes influenced by rock icons throughout time. You’ll see a little bit of the Beatles, Elvis, punk and even some Willie Nelson. We’re really driving on musical influences throughout modern time! To say that I am excited would be an understatement!”
That enthusiasm is felt throughout the entire cast. Emma Jade, the stage manager explains, “This musical is really interesting in that the entire story is told through song. It’s going to be a really bright and beautiful show with a bunch of fun lights and costumes. The cast is huge, so when you see all the dancing and singing together it’s really exciting!”
Besides being a sensory delight, this show brings some serious talent. Henry Findtner, a sophomore taking the lead as Joseph, has trained with many local theaters, performed professionally and is a young professional at Oregon Children’s Theatre. Annalise and Megan Dayton, sisters in real life, play brothers in Joseph and were in Wizard of Oz with Henry.
The two sisters bring a special chemistry to the cast and are getting lots of practice after the school bell rings. Megan says, “At home we listen to the music nonstop and on repeat, and we always have our parents as an audience! It’s my favorite thing ever acting with my best friend.” Annalise adds, “It’s been super fun. Everyday we get to go home after rehearsal to practice singing and dancing.”
Besides the obvious chemistry these two sisters share, the whole crew have a sense of camaraderie that is palpable. It was abundantly clear that what’s most important to all of these participants is how much fun they have together and how supportive they are of one another. Of course, they are also excited they finally get to perform after two years without a production.
This show promises to bring the audience to their feet with the music and have them leaving with a heart full of hope. And we hear it also promises a few surprises as well… rumors of a real goat?
Henry Findtner adds, “This show is a ton of fun, and will appeal to all ages. There’s a little something for everyone and the music is just fantastic.” Please carve out time to come and watch Tualatin High School’s Performing Arts departments come together to create one phenomenal show…they are ready to sing their hearts out for you!
Performances will run Fridays (May 13 and May 20th) and Saturdays (May 14th and 21st) at 7:00pm. Saturday matinees are also available and will show at 2:00pm on May 14th and May 21st. Tickets can be purchased online at or-tigardtualatin-lite.intouchreceipting.com/tuhstheater.
