"Way, way back, many centuries ago, not long after the bible began." And so begins Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat", Andrew Lloyd Weber's first collaboration with Tim Rice. The same could be sung about the show itself, which began decades ago as a much shorter piece, perfect for the Sunday school set. Over time, it evolved into a full length stage musical (well, barely - with intermission and a reprise disco medley at the end, the show is just over 90 minutes), and has played our city again and again. This time, Patrick Cassidy, a less famous sibling to David and Shaun, arrives as a slightly older Joseph, the role that Chicagoans loved so much when played by Donny Osmond in a long running version several years back. The 43 year old actor doesn't appear quite so middle-aged when he takes off his shirt for much of the show, however. So long David, hello Patrick! Minus Osmond, things are pretty close to the other productions that have come through town. The playful sets and let's-just-have-some-fun choreography are new, but still keep in line with the light, silly songs (there is no dialogue). The story is as old as, well, the Old Testament. Joseph and his 11 brothers are raised on a farm by Jacob. When the brothers get jealous of Joseph's new titular garment, they fake his death, sell him as a slave, and wash their hands of him. Joe ends up as a favored slave, but one who is seduced by his master's wife. Thrown in prison, Joseph's gift for reading dreams comes in handy, and brings him to the attention of Pharaoh, who frees him, and makes him a key advisor. Joseph's talent helps him foresee a drought, and the first recorded rationing in history is a success, but Joe's dad and brother's aren't faring so well out in the country. When they visit the big city, forgiveness, reconciliation, and a power ballad brings everyone together. What makes the show so much fun are the goofy touches, like the hoedown inspired mourning for the faked death of Joseph, and the Elvis impersonating Pharaoh.

Weber and Rice create the catchy up-tempo songs that have created a legion of fans for this silly show. The ridiculously entertaining disco recap of the show in just minutes, after the play has ended, is one of the highlights, and the audience of families and grandmas loves every minute. Cassidy might not have the creed of an Osmond, but he does have experience on the musical stage, and does a nice job with the difficult task of playing the straight man. Fans of American Idol will recognize the narrator, who sings us through much of the show. Played by Aimee Adams, the narrator is, this time, a warm and motherly presence, who interacts with the children's choir quite naturally. This may not exactly be a revolutionary new production, but the play, itself, has never aspired to be more than a swift, entertaining evening of hummable comedy - this time with its shirt off.