Jennifer Hudson will serve as a producer for the upcoming Broadway revival of Dreamgirls, she announced earlier this week on The Jennifer Hudson Show. The musical is slated to return to Broadway this fall for the first time since its initial run from December 20, 1981, to August 11, 1985.
A New Generation of Dreamgirls
Hudson, an EGOT winner, expressed her excitement about reimagining Dreamgirls for a new generation. The production will be directed and choreographed by Camille A. Brown, known for her work on musicals such as Hell’s Kitchen and Gypsy.
The original 1981 Broadway cast included Sheryl Lee Ralph as Deena Jones, Loretta Devine as Lorrell Robinson, and Jennifer Holiday as Effie Melody White. The musical subsequently toured domestically and internationally, eventually reaching London’s West End Savoy Theatre with Amber Riley as White.
Dreamgirls garnered numerous awards, including Tony Awards for Best Book of a Musical, Lighting Design, and Best Choreography, as well as a Grammy for Best Cast Show Album in 1983. Jennifer Holiday likewise received a Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.”
Hudson herself won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Effie White in the 2006 film adaptation of Dreamgirls, which also starred Anika Noni Rose, Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé, and Eddie Murphy. This revival marks Hudson’s third Broadway producing credit.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will dates and casting details be announced?
Dates and casting details have not yet been announced on the musical’s official website.
Who is directing and choreographing the revival?
The newly reimagined Broadway revival will be directed and choreographed by five-time Tony nominee Camille A. Brown.
Has Dreamgirls been revived before?
Yes, Dreamgirls has been revived in America and also played an international tour and another national tour, eventually reaching London’s West End.
What impact will a producer with a direct connection to the material—like Jennifer Hudson—have on this new production of Dreamgirls?
