A Dream of Many Talents: Cedar Valley’s “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”

Dreams do come true in the upcoming production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” It’s everything you know and love about the large-scale, beloved Lloyd Webber rock opera but with a special twist: everything is produced locally. Through partnerships with the wcfsymphony, Waterloo Community Playhouse, and Cedar Falls Community Theatre, the Gallagher Bluedorn has joined an impressive team of local talent to shine a bright spotlight on the Cedar Valley’s greatest.

“We’re bringing something that is unique to our community,” shared Ryan Occeña, music director for the production. “We need collaboration and unity amongst our community now more than ever, and this is the sort of thing that brings us together,” Occeña continued. “When there is unity, I think that’s when we’re at our best.” 

A production this size requires the creative genius of many, countless hours, and immense commitment. “At first, rehearsals started slow and spread out,” Occeña began. “But now, as we get closer to the show, the rehearsals have been longer, closer together, and more intense.” This production is a testament to the fact that hard work really does pay off.

Based on the story of Joseph from the Bible’s Book of Genesis, the timeless musical tells the story of the “coat of many colors.” Joseph features many audience favorites, including “Any Dream Will Do,” “Go, Go, Go Joseph,” “Song of the King,” and  “Close Every Door.”

“We have rehearsed at all of the major theaters in the area,” remarked Alta Schwab, one of the Narrators in the show. “It’s exciting to perform at Gallagher Bluedorn, as it’s a much larger and  more professional set as far as community theater goes.” Schwab continued, “It’s all singing, fast moving, and lots going on on stage.” Audiences from all over the Cedar Valley will be impressed at the scale of the show and the number of local talent. The production features a cast and crew of 42 actors and 13 creative team members who are local to the Cedar Valley.

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” has allowed us to dream bigger than ever before. “It’s a different experience than what you may be used to seeing,” shared Occeña. “Our cast is ready and excited to perform. Everyone has a strong work ethic and everyone helps each other to be the best that we can,” said Occeña “It’s been rewarding to say the least.”

Opening at the Gallagher Bluedorn on April 22 and 23, this show will tell the transformative story of a boy with a dream. Among the ups and downs of Joseph’s journey, a message that remains consistent throughout the entire story is the power of love, family and redemption. “Lots of things that are seemingly horrible can ultimately turn out to be good,” Schwab reflects. “Throughout his journey, there’s a message that audiences of all ages can relate to.” 

This classic tale has been enjoyed by over 26 million people around the world, which made this story a perfect selection when creating this community project. Planning for this production began almost 3 years ago and was put on hold due to the pandemic. Coming out of the pandemic, this production acts as a joyous celebration of the arts in the Cedar Valley.

Support the Cedar Valley and celebrate local artists by joining us for this special community collaboration at the Gallagher Bluedorn on April 22 and 23! Order tickets today at GBPAC.com/Joseph or call our box office at (319) 273-7469.

Blog post by Lynn Schweer, Marketing Assistant