Four decades after opening on Broadway, Dreamgirls has finally come to London. This highly anticipated revival depends entirely on finding not just an exceptionally talented, convincing vocalist but a powerhouse star to play Effie: they certainly found that in Amber Riley.
Loosely based on Diana Ross and the Supremes’ ascent to stardom; Dreamgirls spans thirteen years of love, loss and betrayal. The number ‘Steppin’ to the Bad Side’ is dazzling and Adam J Bernard (Jimmy Early) is scene stealing: flamboyant, with a beautiful voice.
The set is smart and innovative whilst unobtrusive, negotiating the difficulty of a musical where there are band performances onstage within the show. One highlight is the addition of Listen, from the 2006 movie, rewritten as a duet for Deena and Effie to empower Deena to become independent from her controlling husband/manager. There are high expectations for this production but Dreamgirls certainly delivers – a brilliant show!
Review written by Emily Channon.
Dreamgirls is currently showing at the Savoy Theatre until Saturday 21st October. For more information on the production, visit here…
Leave a Comment