Full disclosure - I’ve never written a review for a play. However, I have been a fan of theater since I was a young girl and have seen my share of musicals, ranging from amateur productions to Broadway blockbusters. So, when presented with the opportunity to see The Virginia Rep Theater’s DREAMGIRLS, I jumped at the chance.
It did not disappoint! If I had only had one word to sum it up, that word would be “WOW”!
The play follows Effie, Deena, and Lorrell – three young, hopeful friends, calling themselves the Dreamettes, as they set out to become the “next big thing” in the R&B music scene in the 1960s. They begin their careers as back-up singers for Jimmy Early, until their manager attempts to cross over from R&B to the world of pop music. The Dreamettes become The Dreams – and a global sensation is born.
DREAMGIRLS grabs your attention from its opening scene at the Apollo Theater in New York City. The audience is drawn into that world of fun music and choreography. From the shows’ seamless transitions, to the stunning vocal and musical performances, it is easy to forget that you are on Broad Street and have not been transformed back into that exciting era of music. In fact, the person next to me started to sing during a few of the songs and, while it was somewhat distracting, it brought a smile to my face.
The entire DREAMGIRLS’ cast was outstanding, but it was the scenes with Desiree Roots, who portrayed Effie, and D. Jerome Wells, playing the energetic Jimmy Earl, that consistently brought thunderous applause from the audience. Roots’ voice is incredibly powerful, with both heart and soul. In my opinion, she rivals the more famous people that have played this role. Jimmy’s showmanship, from his electrifying dance moves (think James Brown and Bruno Mars) to his strong, soulful voice, was fun to watch.
If you like the ‘Motown’ sound, powerful voices, great acting, and a compelling story, DREAMGIRLS is a must see!
(For parents: The story has some more mature subject matter and language, as would be expected when depicting the lives people in the professional music industry, making it more “PG-13”.)
You can see DREAMGIRLS through August 7th at the November Theatre. Tickets and more info here.
You can see DREAMGIRLS through August 7th at the November Theatre. Tickets and more info here.
