THEATRE SPOTLIGHT: JMTC's DREAMGIRLS

BRINGIN' THE NOISE: The cast of Dreamgirls works up a sweat

Dreamgirls (Jamaica Musical Theatre Company)
Director: Fabian Thomas
Cast: Maurice Bryan, Aisha Davis, Orrin Scott-Stewart and Allison Roberts
Venue: Philip Sherlock Centre, UWI

Tyrone’s Verdict: C+

WHEN it comes to staging a revival of a legendary Broadway musical, you either nail it or you don’t. It’s really that simple. The Jamaica Musical Theatre Company (JMTC)’s rebooting of the renowned Tony-winning musical, Dreamgirls, does not provide the dazzling spectacle many theatregoers will be anticipating, but it is a spirited and diverting take on a classic work that is perhaps older than half the cast that takes to the stage at the UWI Mona-based Philip Sherlock Centre.

The JMTC adaptation of Dreamgirls has none of that razzle-dazzle kick or electricity hardcore lovers of musical theatre crave; however, it delivers occasional tuneful delights, regular doses of humour and commendable breakout performances (notably Allison Roberts as scorned singer Effie White). At the same time, the show benefits from a strong, committed performance from Maurice Bryan as Curtis Taylor, the scheming car salesman-turned-talent manager.

Dreamgirls is an award-winning Broadway sensation about friendship and showbiz that follows the rise of a three-member female singing group in the turbulent 1960s to mid-1970s in the US. Chasing fame, fortune and musical aspirations, The Dreamettes morph into global superstars (The Dreams) under the guidance of their manager (Bryan) but encounter their share of internal conflict and setbacks. When plus-size group member and former lead singer Effie White (Roberts) is unceremoniously dismissed, The Dreams welcome new member Michelle (Jhameila Smith), who joins new queenpin Deena Jones (Aisha Davis) and Lorelle Robinson (Laveda Thompson) on their meteoric rise to new chart-topping heights.

Among other elements, what has endeared fans most to Dreamgirls over the years is the wonderfully rich music composed by Henry Krieger. Sadly, the music is not as lush and ear-pleasing as it ought to be at crucial moments during the JMTC show. High notes pose a serious challenge for some cast members, and this sometimes results in a discordant and jarring sound during numbers.

DREAM CHASERS: Cast members in JMTC's Dreamgirls

Courageously stepping into Effie White’s diva-esque shoes, Roberts does her best to convey the singer’s mix of raw talent and vulnerability. She screams and fights her way through the bring-the-house down solo “And I Am Telling You”, but doesn’t give the song the grit and emotion it calls for. She fares much better with a controlled delivery of the pivotal “I Am Changing”. As fading singer Jimmy Early, Cleveland Cathnott also turns in a noteworthy performance, but the same cannot be said for Orrin Scott-Stewart who bellows his way through the part of Early’s manager Marty.

As Deena and Lorelle, Davis and Thompson bring likeability to the roles, but they come up short on substance. Bryan, on the other hand, manages to combine the toughness of a no-nonsense manager with strong singing and convincing acting for a balanced performance.

In short, the JMTC’s production of Dreamgirls (boasting great-looking costumes and lovely lighting) doesn’t score a home run, but the effort is admirable considering the mammoth limitations the cast and crew must have faced in getting a show of this magnitude and iconic status off the ground. Those in the mood for a temporary diversion will find Dreamgirls a worthwhile experience, but those with high expectations should prepare for a let down.


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