*****

Despite being almost 50 years old, this camp and colourful family musical still feels fresh with 2009 X Factor winner Joe McElderry breathing new life into the role of Joseph.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s spectacular tells the biblical story of Joseph, one of 12 brothers and his father, Jacob’s, favourite. When Joseph is given a coat of many colours, the jealous brothers sell him into slavery where his gift for interpreting dreams impresses the Pharoah.

Joe plays Joseph with boy-like charm and polished vocals. He has grown significantly as a performer since his X Factor days, delivering powerful, note-perfect renditions of singalong classic Any Dream Will Do and the emotionally charged Close Every Door, receiving a mid-show standing ovation.

2014 Britain’s Got Talent runner-up, Lucy Kay, plays the narrator. Barely leaving the stage, she showcases impressive vocal stamina and an exceptional voice, filling the theatre with her stunning soprano.

Emilianos Stamatakis brings fun factor as the gyrating, Elvis-inspired Pharaoh. Rock and roll-tinged Song Of The King provides a standout moment.

The cast’s enjoyment and enthusiasm are infectious with the upbeat finale, a megamix of songs from the show, getting the whole audience on their feet and singing along.