Dreamgirls The Musical - Review

Dreamgirls the musical takes up residency for more than one night only at the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham. This is a show that will bring lots of sparkles and surprise over the festive season.

Direct from the West End with an extraordinary story and spine-tingling vocals that send audiences wild, this spectacular musical production features the classic songs, And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going, Listen and I Am Changing.

Meet The Dreams – Effie, Lorrell and Deena – three talented young singers in the turbulent 1960s, a revolutionary time in American music history. Join the three friends as they embark upon a musical rollercoaster ride through a world of fame, fortune, and the ruthless realities of show business, testing their friendships to the very limit. This is a show with female friendship at its heart, celebrating all the ups and downs of life.

Having seen the cast perform a stripped-back version of some of the classic hits from the musical back in September, I was very excited to see it with all the production values. And I was not disappointed. This is a show that delivers in every aspect, from the vocals to the costume and the staging, with the set and costumes capturing the essence of the time. The glitz and glamour is present the whole way through.

As beautiful and sparkly as Dreamgirls is, it also deals with some more difficult issues, such as the theme of race and women in the music industry. These issues are explored delicately, sensitively, and thoughtfully.

Nicole Dennis played the iconic role of Effie White. Her credits include Dear Evan Hansen, Dreamgirls (West End production) and finalist on ITV’s The Voice in 2019 where she wowed viewers and judges singing And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going with team mentor Jennifer Hudson. Her vocal range was outstanding, and her performance was off the charts. Brandon Lee Sears as jimmy Early oozed charisma and charm. He managed to embody the role and his dance moves were slick and groovy.

Paige Peddie and Natalie Kassanga played Lorrell and Deena as the two other Dreams. They were incredible, each complimenting one another with Paige bringing light and humour and Natalie providing more of a calming presence. They, alongside Nicole as Effie are an incredible trio who embody the Dreams.

As always, The Alexandra Theatre Birmingham put on an amazing gala night, with lots of Christmas joy in the air. It is always a pleasure to review for them and I look forward to what 2023 brings. But for now, all I can say is that Dreamgirls the Musical is amazing!

Dreamgirls is on at the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham from 6th - 31st December and tickets are available at the following link https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/dreamgirls/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham/