Birmingham Alexandra Theatre – until 31st December 2022
Reviewed by Joanne Hodge
5*****
SPECTACULAR!!!
A must see … Dreamgirls tells the story of three extremely talented singers and their journey into and through the world of show business, including the highs and lows, where honesty, integrity, friendships and relationships are tested to the maximum until the realisation hits that fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be and that in all the glitz and glamour, personal values can be sidelined and / or diminished and it can be easy to lose sight of who you really are? And the question “What do I want?” grows until it can no longer be avoided.
Casey Nicholas (Director & Choreographer) brings this extraordinary story to life, leaving the audience mesmerised with set and lighting designs that make you believe that you are right there, in the 60’s experiencing musical performances that leave you feeling warm inside and wanting more.
Natalie Callagher does a fantastic job with a diverse cast who each bring something different (and special) ‘to the table’ including charm, ruthlessness, wit, love and unbelievable talent.
I have never experienced standing ovations like these, throughout the duration of the performance, sufficient applause that could fool you into thinking you were in a 10,000 seater arena.
Nicole Raquel Dennis’s performance of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” gives the feeling that the entire audience are holding their breath, whilst witnessing a phenomenon, at the range and power of her vocals. The likes of Jennifer Hudson and Beyonce should be afraid to witness a young woman hit those highs so effortlessly and yet with so much passion.
Brandon Lee Spears as Jimmy Early is full of charisma and brings the character to life with his outstanding vocal, charm and wit. For me, these were the two stand out performers, but the entire cast delivered award winning performances.
Daniella Bryson (Head of Wardrobe) and Maria McLarnon (Head of Wigs) do an incredible job with costumes, appearances and wigs taking you through the 60’s and it’s evolving fashions and trends, as seen with The Supremes, The Rosettes, The Crystals and Martha Reeves and the Vandellas.
I could go on and on about this production, highlighting positives unable to identify any negatives, the best advice I can give is simply ‘Go see for yourself’, this sparkling sensation really is the thing of dreams!!