When the lights dim and the conductor taps his baton for the orchestra’s attention, anticipation spreads through the audience. Sometimes we are pleased, and sometimes we are disappointed. “Dreamgirls” definitely does not disappoint. This electrifying production moves at a wild pace that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats until the final curtain.
“Dreamgirls” opened in New York Dec. 20, 1981 to rave reviews and ran for 1,521 performances. It won six Tony Awards and the 1982 Grammy Award for Best Cast Show Album. It was considered the most expensive Broadway Production at that time.
“Dreamgirls” is an explosion of fantastic talent and super entertainment. Here is one show you are guaranteed to get your money’s worth. The original production received many awards and made stars of and garnered awards for Jennifer Holiday on Broadway and won an Oscar for Jennifer Hudson for the movie version. This production is not to be outdone; the cast is spot on with outstanding performances by every person that steps onto the Fox stage.
It is loosely based on the rise of the Supremes during a time when Motown and black artists had their “place.” The plot revolves around the ’60s and ’70s when a young inexperienced talented trio, The Dreamettes—Effie, Deena and Lorrell—come from Chicago to New York to appear in a talent contest at the Apollo Theater. They lose the contest by an underhanded play from manipulating, ambitious, wannabe manager Curtis Taylor. Realizing their talent, he hires them as backup singers for one of his up-and-coming clients and ultimately brings them to star status with a heavy price on their personal lives.
But it is Miranda D. Lawson who ultimately glows and reaches the depths of her soul in her portrayal of Effie White and with the heart-wrenching “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.” Her voice is outstanding and memorable.
The biggest scene stealer is a young man who brings a new and fresh energy to the James “Thunder” Early role. Dedrick Weathersby is a complete show with his funky, captivating projection of this character. He belts out his numbers with a powerful voice, channeling James Brown, Little Richard and Michael Jackson, all while gyrating his body with wild enthusiasm.
The always moving sets by Kelly Tighe, glittery costumes by Margret Toomey with musical director Sean Kana’s superb orchestra make this a stunning production. The sets move the audience backstage and front effortlessly without being confusing. Robyn Tribizi’s refreshing choreography and Angela Farr Schiller’s meticulous, controlled direction keeps this convoluted plot moving and interesting.
Spend a high-powered evening with Broadway By The Bay’s “Dreamgirls” and you’ll leave the theatre rejuvenated. This is a solid presentation that doesn’t stop to catch its breath.
Broadway By The Bay’s 50th Anniversary Season is a blockbuster with productions of “Les Miserable,” “My Fair Lady,” “West Side Story” and “Kiss Me Kate.” This is truly the best value in great musical theatre anywhere. Close to home, free parking and fantastic subscription and single seat rates.
Where: Fox Theatre, 2219 Broadway St., Redwood City
Through: Aug. 31
Tickets: $35-$55
Details: (650) 579-5565 or visit broadwaybythebay.org.
