No one in the land cannot have heard of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s fabulous early musical recounting the story from the first book in the Bible, Genesis, describing the life of Joseph born into a shepherding family, sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and finally becoming Pharoh’s right hand man. From countless successful runs in the West End, on Broadway and around the world in regional theatres, this is a family musical that ticks all of the boxes – catchy show stopping tunes, colourful costumes, great choreography and above all a talented and energetic cast ranging in age from the very young to maybe the not quite so young.

The story is told by the Narrator, Christina Bianco, who is an incredible pocket rocket - singing, dancing playing multiple roles, including that of Jacob and Potiphar’s wife, with the occasional costume change and generally always on the go and on the stage without ever appearing to break into a sweat.

Over the years the title role of Joseph has been played by many a household name and at this evening’s performance the role of Joseph was played by an understudy, Davide Fienauri. He made the part his own, alternatively displaying charisma and vulnerability as his story progressed. As you would expect, he can certainly fill the stage, sing and dance. The arrangement of Close Every Door to Me sung by Joseph and the children closing Act 1 was excellent and was rewarded with extended applause.

We were welcomed to Pharoh’s palace in Egypt by the 2009 X Factor winner Joe McElderry who as Pharoh certainly made female temperatures rise as he gyrated his way through Poor Poor Pharoh, a fabulous show stopping number if ever there was one. The set was spectacular with Egyptian hieroglyphics, wonderful costumes and choreography which even included the supposedly immobile statues!

Whilst the children in the cast took the part of some of the bearded brothers, notably Benjamin, I wasn’t too sure of a child playing the part of Potiphar, however on balance the idea was well received.

All of the musical numbers are well known and loved but of particular mention would be Those Canaan Days not to be confused with Those Can Can Days and One More Angel in Heaven. The orchestra under the direction of John Rigby maintained a perfect balance between their instruments and the vocalists.

The production team have been especially creative with this show. The Director Laurence Connor along with lighting designer, Ben Cracknell, sound designer, Gareth Owen, set and costume designer, Morgan Large and choreographer Joann M Hunter have shown great attention to detail which has resulted in a lively, fast paced and colourful evening’s entertainment.

Whilst there are some ‘tweaks’ to the original which may not be to everyone’s liking, I think that this is a fabulous feel good show which would be a shame to miss.

Sheffield Lyceum Until 12th July