Mesa Arts Center Presents JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT Next Weekend

Biblical-era Canaan and Egypt will come to vibrant life in the musical production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," a youth performance scheduled March 31-April 3 at Mesa Arts Center in their 550-seat Piper Repertory Theater. The reimagined tale of Joseph and his coat of many colors, produced by Studio 3 and Limelight Performing Arts, features a cast of 51 youth actors ages 6-18 as well as 51 performers from Chandler Children's Choir.

Directed by Emma England and Marie South (both of whom are multiple recipients of ariZoni Awards for theatrical excellence), the musical tells the story of Jacob's favorite son, Joseph, who is blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph must endure a series of trials that challenge his spirit and humanity. Despite weighty themes like enslavement and fratricide, the production is upbeat and full of comic relief.

"'Joseph' gives our performers a chance to showcase their talents in a huge way," said Emma England, Studio 3 owner and artistic director. "The show is funny, inspiring and full of color, yet at its heart is a powerful message of love and unity for children and adults alike. The cast's hard work and incredible passion will be evident in the top-notch quality of this performance."

The ancient Biblical sage has been reinvigorated for the stage with colorful characters and costumes, modern choreography and a range of musical styles like country western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and a Pharaoh who sings Elvis. With lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the show includes Broadway favorites like "Close Every Door," "Go Go Go Joseph" and "Any Dream Will Do."

"Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," presented through special arrangement with Rodgers & Hammerstein, rnh.com, is the final production of Studio 3-Limelight's 2015-16 season. Tickets start at $15 and are on sale at the Mesa Arts Center box office or at Studio 3 in Gilbert. Group ticket discounts are available. There also is a morning performance scheduled April 1 for local school groups. For more information, contact Studio 3 at (480) 545-1492 or info@studio3arts.com, or visit studio3arts.com.

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