Dreamgirls is an iconic musical, later movie musical, but it is on stage where the story really sings. The show follows the rise of the Dreamettes (later the Dreams) amidst the changing sounds of America in the swinging sixties. The trio at the musical’s heart (Effie, Deena and Lorrell) navigate these challenges, finding success, overcoming heartbreak and – ultimately – learning to love themselves and one another.
Dreamgirls premiered on Broadway in 1981, it was directed and choreographed by musical theatre legend Michael Bennett. Thirty-five years later the show made its UK debut, opening on the West End in a new production directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw. This production is now on a UK tour, and we caught up with it at the Liverpool Empire. The show continues to honour Bennett’s original vision as Tim Hatley’s sets whizz around the stage creating their own choreography. Simona Budd keeps a tight reign on the tempo of the proceedings from her opening kettle bell cameo to the show’s final power chords. The almost continuous drumbeat adding to the tension throughout. Nicholaw’s direction is serviceable, making the most of the show’s weakest element and helping to flesh character’s out between the showstoppers. The choreography is recognisably Nicholaw (see also The Prom and The Book of Mormon) and there are some spectacular moments. That said, his penchant for jumps and leaps can sometimes distract.
Ultimately, it is the show’s music which elevates it. Here, hits like ‘And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going’ and ‘Listen’ provide the accomplished vocalists in the company something to get their teeth into. It cannot be easy to sing in the shadow of Jennifer Hudson, Amber Riley and Jennifer Holliday but Nicole Raquel Dennis rises to the challenge earning several standing ovations during her rendition of ‘And I’m Telling You’. Understudy Holly Liburd’s Beyonce infused Deena managed to navigate the challenges of this character, showing her vocal development, and peaking in ‘Listen’. This song, added to the 2006 film version of Dreamgirls to give Beyonce a number, has been adapted to create a duet for Effie and Deena and allow the women a moment together in this powerful stage musical. Paige Peddie’s Lorrell more than holds her own against these vocal powerhouses, demonstrating impressive range and some much needed light relief. Brandon Lee Sears’ eye-wateringly energetic performance as Jimmy and Matt Mills charming and chilly Curtis are also worth noting.
This rollercoaster may have similarities to the origin story of another legendary girl group – The Supremes – but there have been many public denials that the show was ever intended to be anything other than an homage to this key period in American popular history. However, there are so many similarities that it feels like a case of the writers doth protest too much. Whatever the show’s inspiration it continues to pack theatres, giving audiences an entertaining evening packed with killer songs and a healthy dose of female empowerment.
Playing until 7th January, https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/liverpool-empire/
Reviewer: Clare Chandler
Reviewed: 3rd January 2023
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★