Inspired by the Supremes, Dreamgirls is a dazzling and emotional journey through 20th-century American pop music. The story follows a Motown group of three black women: Lashayah Byfield as Effie White, Jasmine Sakpoba as Deena Jones, and Nicole Vassell as Lorrell Robinson (later played by Mary Briggs as Michelle Morris), aka 'The Dreams', who enter a talent show. The women get picked up by a manager who allows them to be backing singers for another famous artist.
The musical involves one of the singers developing feelings towards the manager, which results in her being removed from the group. Following on from this, the musical chronicles the rise of the group's success in the 60s and 70s, as well as the determination of the other woman to make it on her own in the world of stardom. They must learn the hard lesson that show business and fame aren't necessarily as glamorous as we assume.
Dreamgirls highlights the importance of friendship over success, exploring the pressures of stardom, competition, and love during a revolutionary time in American music history.
With music by Henry Krieger and lyrics and book by Tom Eyen, Dreamgirls is packed with catchy powerhouse songs, such as ‘And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going', ‘I Am Changing', and ‘One Night Only'. The actor's vocals are phenomenal. Alongside the dazzling costumes and enthralling dancing, it is no surprise this musical has such an iconic status in musical theatre.
Directed by David Gregory and produced by Folu Oyewole, the show's pacing is relentless, with various scene changes, fast-paced musical numbers, and energy that mirror the chaotic ambition and dreams in the music industry.
This production of Dreamgirls was brilliantly crafted, filled with standout vocals, energetic movement, and emotive storytelling. It truly did dazzle the audience.
Review: Cara-Louise Scott-Lapish Photos: Justine Matthew