Joseph Reviews

by Mrs Magee and Welsh Matron

The most amazing thing about Shiplake College’s production of Joseph, at the Kenton Theatre in Henley, was the cast. Joseph’s coat was pretty impressive too and wearing it was Sixth Form student Sam Bourke, who along with fellow Sixth Former Henry Kunzig, brought their own brand of boyish banter to the their lead roles of Joseph and Pharaoh.

The diversity and inclusivity of Shiplake was well represented in this production with pupils from Year 7 upward in great voice and giving it their all. Among them was Year 10, drama scholar, James Lucking who played Joseph’s brother Ruben, again with great humour and a very good voice. The Sixth Form girls were also represented with Pheobe Kay, Emma O’Shea and Esme Young, all showing true talent in singing and dancing in their various roles.

The production was expertly narrated in song by Noah Scotchbook, who is a shining star in all of Shiplake’s music and drama events, and Sixth Form student Charlotte Garnett. Ukrainian student, Nikita Saitov played Dan, one of Joseph’s siblings and Sam Chambers and Max Noakes brought a comedic touch to their roles of brothers Simeon and Napthali.

The show, which ran from February 15 to 17, was an absolute sell-out. The opening night was a joy to behold and as the final strands of Give Me My Coloured Coat rang out the audience was uplifted and the amazing cast exited to rapturous and well deserved, applause. A really well put together production that delivered on many levels for all who were fortunate enough to get tickets.

On entering the busy Kenton Theatre, the atmosphere was buzzing as everyone young and old looked forward to an evening of fantastic music (Shiplake never lets us down), fabulous choreography, and spell binding entertainment. As we took our seats, the band burst into action. The show had begun.....

The narrators Noah Scotchbrook and Charlotte Garnet captivated the audience with their amazing storytelling through song. Joseph (Sam Bourke) confident and well rehearsed, along with his brothers, started their story showing their emotions through dance and song, which continued strongly throughout the show!

Pharaoh (Henry Kunzig) drew the audience to join in with singing, laughter and clapping, especially during his rendition of “Song of the King” by ripping off his gown to reveal a white catsuit. Elvis Presley had entered the building (Aha!).

Clapping and jigging in seats to the well known songs continued throughout the show, especially when the younger performers all dressed in Hawaiian costume entered the stage to sing a calypso!

It was a magical evening enjoyed by both audience and performers in a wonderful theatre. I cant wait to see what comes next !!!