Peter Dominique
April 11, 2015
Tryout nothing to cheer about: Local mother questions tryout process
April 14, 2015
Ryan Williams is a hunk of burning love in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
Technically, he’s Pharaoh, but played in a nod to the rock king himself, Elvis Presley
“My dad is a huge Elvis fan,” Williams said. “When I started learning to sing, he told me to listen to Elvis because he was the best.”
It was an easy fit. Williams’ gift is his “warbling vibrato.”
“I’ve done a lot of Elvis-type roles,” the 41-year-old said. As Conrad in “Bye Bye Birdie” and Danny in “Grease,” Presley’s machismo swagger came in handy He’s even penned and starred in a one-man show, “My Father and Elvis.”
And as the Egyptian leader in “Joseph,” Williams returns to his wheelhouse.
The brainstorm of composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice, the pop/rock/country story focuses on the Old Testament story of Joseph – loved by his father, who adorns him with a coat of many colors; shunned by his jealous brothers; sold into slavery; and jailed, after refusing to bed Pharoah’s wife.
Joseph’s gift, however, is in his ability to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams. In return, the king elevates Joseph to his second in command.
An eclectic collection of musical styles, “Joseph” delivers hits, “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door,” “One More Angel in Heaven” and, Williams’ favorite, “Those Canaan Days.”
The show stars “American Idol” contestants Diana DeGarmo (as the narrator) and Ace Young (Joseph).
A military child, music was Williams’ connection with each move. “Mom wanted to find nice things where I could blend in and meet people. That led to theater.”
‘JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT’
WHEN: April 14-19
WHERE: Saenger Theaer, Canal Street, New Orleans
COST:$25—$115
INFO:504-525-1052 or saengernola.com orTicketmaster
Ace Young as Joseph and Diana DeGarmo as Narrator in “Joseph & the Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
