FEBRUARY 4, 2015
“Dreamgirls” returns to Arizona
February 13 – March 1
SCOTTSDALE – Desert Foothills Theater (DFT), a division of the Foothills Community Foundation, presents the popular musical “Dreamgirls” Fri., Feb. 13 through Sun., March 1 in the intimate Black Box Theater of Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, 33606 N. 60th Street, in North Scottsdale. The special show, which coincides with Black History Month, features a cast that includes more than 20 African American actors.
Meribeth Reeves, DFT’s managing director, said the Tony award-winning musical is rarely produced in community theaters due to the demanding casting. “This is an extraordinary chance to see Dreamgirls here in Arizona. It was produced once before in 2006 by the Black Theatre troupe at the Herberger Theatre,” Reeves said.
The Broadway show, which opened in New York in 1981, became a box office hit movie in 2006, earning Jennifer Hudson an academy award for her role as a supporting actress. The show is set during a time in history when rhythm and blues blended with other styles of popular music to create a new American sound. The plot revolves around a girl group that sets their sights on making their dreams of stardom come true. While the musical is full of high-energy songs and dance performances, the play is also about the behind-the-scenes reality of the entertainment industry – the business part of show business that made possible this cultural phenomenon.
DFT’s production is directed by Damon Bolling with musical direction by Daniel Kurek and choreography by Lynzee 4Man.
Because the show is rarely produced in Arizona, Bolling encourages people to purchase their tickets early. “We’re anticipating a lot of interest in Dreamgirls. It’s a powerful story and a positive depiction of the African American music community fifty years ago. It sends a positive message about women and finding strength, about family and close ties. This is a show you don’t want to miss!”
Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets range from $25-$32 for adults and $15-$20 for youth and students. Group sale discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Visit www.dftheater.org or call 480-488-1981.
Courtesy photo by WADE MORAN
