Groups will do well to brace themselves for a musical that bombards the eyes, ears and soul, in the stunning setting of the Savoy Theatre. Tim Farr reviews Dreamgirls
If you’ve never been absolutely exhausted just by sitting and watching a show, the visual, vocal and emotional workout that is Dreamgirls should do the trick.
The story follows the musical journey of 1960s girl trio The Dreamettes, as they try to climb the steep hill to stardom. Their first steps into the limelight see them spotted at a talent show by first-time showbiz agent Curtis Taylor Jr, who gives them their big break as backing singers behind the effervescent Jimmy Early.
But as the girls’ career grows and they start to play their own shows, Curtis creates a rift between them as he prefers the prettier Deena Jones as lead singer over the undoubted talent of Effie White.
The snub leads to Effie leaving the girls, and we follow her heart-wrenching struggle back up stardom hill, this time on her own.
The performances are incredible: From Tyrone Huntley’s sensitive but strong portrayal of the girls’ songwriter and Effie’s brother CC White, to Adam J Bernard’s energetic interpretation as the shrieking, jumping, twirling singer Jimmy Early – leaving you to wonder how he’ll get through one performance, let alone seven a week.
But clearly the headline has to go to Effie White, played equally well by Amber Riley and her understudy Marisha Wallace. Either will make you feel every emotion Effie goes through: You’ll be left breathless, but feeling you have achieved something with her.
- Book tickets at dreamgirlswestend.com
