5 Reasons To Watch Dreamgirls at the Savoy Theatre

It’s safe to say that Dreamgirls coming to London’s West End was always going to be a highlight of any musical theatre fan’s year.

Over 35 years after it made its original Broadway debut, the much-loved show has finally made it to the Savoy Theatre, and we are pleased to say that it was most definitely worth the wait.

Made even more famous by the 2006 film adaptation, which stars Beyonce, Jennifer Hudson and Eddie Murphy, Dreamgirls tells the story of a young female singing trio who are desperately trying to make the big time.

Unfortunately, they soon learn that showbusiness isn’t as easy as it seems and it isn’t long before their glamourous world starts to crumble.

Starring Glee’s Amber Riley as Effie White, this is one production that should definitely not be missed… But if you don’t believe us, here are 5 reasons why you should check out Dreamgirls sooner rather than later:

1. Amber Riley

Let’s get this one out of the way; Amber Riley is absolutely phenomenal as this show’s leading lady.

Those unfamiliar with her previous work will no doubt be blown away by her stunning vocal range, with the audience giving Amber a standing ovation mid-performance on more than one occasion.

As well as having an absolutely flawless singing voice, Amber is also an impeccable actress and her rendition of ‘And I’m Telling You’ moved the majority of spectators to tears - including her Glee co-star and close friend, Chris Colfer, who was sitting nearby radiating pride for the star throughout the entire performance.

2. The Songs

Dreamgirls is just one of those shows that has something for everyone; you want to cry? There’s a song for that. You want to feel empowered? There’s a song for that. You want to dance in your chair with a massive smile on your face? Guess what? There’s a song for that.

As fans of the film or the original stage musical will know, Dreamgirls is all about the music and we are just lucky that it also carries a gripping and emotive plot as well.

3. Jimmy Early

It’s universally agreed that the character of Jimmy Early is bloomin’ brilliant, with Eddie Murphy’s high energy performance in the film earning him an Oscar nomination.

As a result, it’d be easy for any other performance of the eccentric character to be a letdown, but we are ecstatic to confirm that Adam J. Bernard is showstopping in the pivotal role.

Providing comic-relief throughout, Jimmy shines on stage just as he does on camera and although every single Dreamgirls cast member is faultless in this production, this will be one of the characters that’ll stick in your mind the most once you leave the theatre.

4. The Ensemble

It’s easy to give the lead characters all of the kudos when reviewing a show, but can we take a moment to give the impeccable Dreamgirls ensemble cast a shout out?

Effortlessly flitting from scene to scene with a series of high-energy dancing and faster-than-the-speed of light costume changes, the ensemble are arguably the slickest in the business at the moment - further highlighting that there really isn’t a single weak link in the entire production.

5. The Set

As if having a phenomenal cast, brilliant soundtrack and an extensive array of wacky characters wasn’t enough, you’ll be pleased to know that you’ll also have something absolutely gorgeous to look at and admire.

With all the glitz, glamour, sequins and glitter that you could ever even dream of, Dreamgirls is a visual marvel and, to be honest, we’re sure that you wouldn’t have expected anything less.

Click here to find out more about Dreamgirls at the Savoy Theatre.