In glorious technicolor
By Craig Nelson
Cynical about the life-changing power of theatre? Budding stage-star Richard Meek is proof that, just like in the musicals, dreams really do come true. It was Richard's boyhood dream to star as Joseph after being taken to the West End as a young lad to see Jason Donovan and his technicolor dreamcoat. Who could predict that, just a year after finishing drama school, the 24-year-old actor would be stepping onto the stage as Joseph at New Wimbledon Theatre.
"I was so young, I don't reme-mber much about it, but I know the show had a big impression on me, so much so I went to see it three times," said Richard. He now believes the central theme of the story shaped his young thinking and, to a certain extent, moulded his personality.
"The theme of Joseph is that as long as you dare to dream and believe you can make your dreams come true, then they will," he said. "That must have affected me because I have never met anyone who knew exactly what they wanted to be when they grew up - and went on to do it. "I was never in doubt. I wanted to move to London, sing, dance and perform on stage."
These days shows like X Factor have made becoming a star a more reasonable goal. Billy Elliot, the film and musical, has also made it more acceptable for a young lad to want to pull on a pair of tights and start dancing. Like Joseph, who was ostracised for being special, Richard had to overcome a few hurdles to make his dreams come true.
"I was brought up near Kings Lynn, in Norfolk, so I have had my challenges," he said. "Talking about becoming an actor just wasn't done. People would tell me to think of something more sensible. "The similarities with Joseph's story probably end there. I've never been thrown into prison or pushed down a well by my brothers. I don't even have any brothers, I have a sister, although when I think about it she did once push me down a dyke."
Joseph remains one of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd-Webber's most popular collaborations. As well as a great story, the musical is packed with unforgettable songs including Any Dream Will Do, voted Broadway Song of the Year on the show's release.
Richard believes the educational element of Joseph shouldn't be overlooked. He said: "I went to a convent school, but strangely enough I don't recall ever being taught the story of Joseph. "To some degree, the musical is probably a better way for kids to learn about the bible."
Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, New Wimbledon Theatre, September 18-23, £8-£26. Visit newwimbledontheatre.co.uk or call 0870 060 6646.
Thursday 14th September 2006
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