Showing posts with label Dreamgirls. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dreamgirls. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 18, 2017

'DreamGirls' packing-them-in at the Alhambra Theatre and Dining


Cast of "DreamGirls" by Jamie Iames Repper
If you’ve already seen a production of “DreamGirls” before, you haven’t seen a show like this one.  The movie presentation is about the closest that you’ll come to a live, spectacular, eat-until-you’re-full representation of this well-known musical.  Champagne, hors d’oeuvres, photo-ops, laughter and anticipation awaited the packed house at the Alhambra Theater and Dining on Gala Night (first Friday night of every production), and you won’t be disappointed when you come.

Ms. "V" with Timoty Ellis (lt) and Jereme Raickett (rt)
If you haven’t been to the Alhambra for a while, you are in for a real treat.  There have been many renovations to the building and recently an illuminated stage.  The theatre lost 12 patron seats with the larger platform, yet attendees and actors are enjoying all the changes especially during “DreamGirls” and other shows.

The Choreography of James Kinney* really shines during many of the scenes especially in the number “Steppin’ To The Bad Side.”  This segment also showcases numerous talented men.  You want to hear some diverse musical sound?  Then you will delight in the pitch-perfect harmony from Peter M. Jackson, Jereme Raickett*, David Berry*, Anthony Mincey and the Ensemble (Timothy Ellis*, Samuel Brown, Kurt McCall* and Michael Jackson look-alike, Jamil Abdur-Rahman).

(Lt-Rt) Van Poller, Pamela,Jasmine, Melanie & Belinda
There are a couple of non-black actors in the show and (Dave) Timothy Ellis* (also recently appearing in other Alhambra productions) leaves the audience in stitches when he sings “Cadillac Car - A La Pat Boon”.  He sounds amazing, as always, but you’ve got to remember the storyline.

New to the Alhambra are Melessie Clark* (Effie White), Alexis Tidwell* (Lorrell Robinson), and Mandi Jo John* (Deena Jones); who are playing lead roles in “DreamGirls.”  These newbies bring their talents of song and acting to JAX, and will hopefully be back again.

If you think you’ve heard the sultry-baritone-voice of Peter M. Jackson; he has appeared in the hit shows “The Wiz, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Sister Act and Showboat”.  He’s back and this time as (Curtis Taylor, Jr.).  If you want to get a good laugh, you’ll enjoy the antics of David Berry* playing the likes of James Brown as (James “Thunder” Early - Jimmy).  He’s got the moves, voice, and flashy outfits and shoes.

Jereme Raickett* plays Effie’s brother (C.C. White).  Jereme has been part of the Alhambra, Bolero's Dance Studio and is also part of Maximum Theatre Group.  His vocals, acting and dance have brought him a mighty long way.  Linzy Lauren (Michelle Morris) has appeared in other Alhambra showcases as well as a dependable behind-the-scenes stage assistant.

The "Dreams" by Jamie Iames Repper
There are numerous other male and female actors whom you may remember from the Alhambra or around town.  Don’t forget to take a look at your program and let these fine performers know that you saw them there.  Kudos also to the Costume Designers, and as always producer/director - Tod Booth*.
   * denotes members of the Actors’ Equity Association *
See if you can tell why Chef DeJuan Roy made his particular selections for this show.  The menu was great from the soup (or salad) served at the beginning of the meal; to the after-dinner pastries at the end of the Gala evening (or the dessert at the end of the meal).  To see the menu, Click HERE.  There are some great seats left, but you’d better hurry!

DreamGirls
DATES: April 12 — May 21, 2017

SHOW TIMES: Evening shows Tuesday through Sunday start at 7:50 p.m.  Doors open at 5:50 p.m., and dinner begins at 6 p.m.  Saturday Matinees begin at 1:15 p.m.  Doors open at 10:50 a.m. and the brunch begins at 11 a.m.  Sunday Matinees are at 1:50 p.m.  Doors open at 11:50 a.m. and the meal is server starting 12 p.m.

DRESS: “Business Casual” or “Sunday Best”.

TICKETS: Prices range from $38 – $62.  Ticket prices include: a plated dinner served to your table, an incredible show and prime parking.  Group sales of 20 + are available upon request.
  **Price does NOT include gratuity or orders from the bar**

LOCATION: Alhambra Theater & Dining
       12000 Beach Blvd.
       Jacksonville, Florida 32246
       (904) 641-1212

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

'DreamGirls' opens at the Alhambra Theatre and Dining



"And I am telling you, you're gonna love me," and you’re going to love the hit show “DreamGirls” that will be appearing on stage at the Alhambra Theater and Dining from April 12 — May 21.  It’s not just about singing, dancing and the performing, DreamGirls takes the audience on a behind-the-scenes rags-to-riches journey in entertainment industry - the business part of show business that made possible this cultural phenomenon.  DreamGirls marks the musical contribution to America that we are beginning to understand today.

Following the story of a young female singing trio from Chicago called "The Dreams," who become music superstars, DreamGirls is a show about a time in American musical history when rhythm and blues blended with other styles of popular music creating a new American sound.  Act One is set in the fabulous sixties, a time when people were still screaming at Elvis and listening to The Beatles, but were dancing to the new beat of countless groups like The Supremes, The Marvelettes, The Temptations and The Shirelles.  Act Two shows the creation and the arrival of disco, another new turn in American pop music.

DreamGirls opened on December 20, 1981, at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway, and was then nominated for 13 Tony Awards, including the Tony Award for Best Musical, and won six. It was later adapted into a motion picture from DreamWorks and Paramount Pictures in 2006.  "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" was a number one single on the Billboard R&B charts in 1982. For the Dreamgirls original cast recording won two Grammy ® Awards, including Best Musical Album and Best Vocal Performance.  The 2006 film won two Academy Awards, including a Best Supporting Actress nod for Jennifer Hudson.

While the show has been likened to the story of Diana Ross and The Supremes, writer Tom Eyen denied that he had The Supremes in mind when he wrote the book. He is quoted as saying in 1986, “I didn't grow up with The Supremes...I grew up with the Shirelles. Dreamgirls isn't about any one group. It's a cavalcade of Motown singers: The Shirelles, the Chiffons, Martha and the Vandellas, Little Richard and Stevie Wonder. All these characters are larger than life.”

Alhambra Executive Chef, DeJuan Roy prepares a new menu for each Alhambra production and DreamGirls is no exception.  To see the menu, Click HERE.
 
DreamGirls
DATES: April 12 — May 21, 2017

SHOW TIMES: Evening shows Tuesday through Sunday start at 7:50 p.m.  Doors open at 5:50 p.m., and dinner begins at 6 p.m.  Saturday Matinees begin at 1:15 p.m.  Doors open at 10:50 a.m. and the brunch begins at 11 a.m.  Sunday Matinees are at 1:50 p.m.  Doors open at 11:50 a.m. and the meal is server starting 12 p.m.

DRESS: “Gala Night” (Friday April 14, 2017) attire is “Dressy/Formal/Black Tie”.  All other shows could be “Business Casual” or “Sunday Best”.

TICKETS: Prices range from $38 – $62.  Ticket prices include: a plated dinner served to your table, an incredible show and prime parking.  Group sales of 20 + are available upon request.
   **Price does NOT include gratuity or orders from the bar**

LOCATION: Alhambra Theater & Dining
       12000 Beach Blvd.
       Jacksonville, Florida 32246
       (904) 641-1212

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Stage Aurora's 'Dreamgirls' at two new venues in Florida


Stage Aurora Theatrical Company will present the Tony –Award winning hit Broadway musical Dreamgirls November 11–20 at Amelia Musical Playhouse and November 26 & 27 at their new home, The Ritz Theatre and Museum in JAX.  Dreamgirls marks the first production of the new partnership between Stage Aurora Theatrical Company and The Ritz Theatre and Museum.
Dreamgirls tells the story of the up and coming 1960’s girls group and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune.  This hit Broadway musical won 6 Tony Awards including Best Book of a Musical, Best Choreography, and Best Actress in a Musical.

The Florida cast will include: Chae JaQuanda Clements as Effie; Anthony Mincey, Jr. as Curtis; Patrick Johnson as C. C.; Ebony Murray and LaTara Osorio as Deena; Star Lalanne as Lorrell; Isaiah Houston as James Thunder Early; and Kenyada Williams as Michelle.  Dreamgirls’ artistic team is comprised of Director/Choreographer Darryl Reuben Hall, with costumes by Sandra Levy Donawa and Valerie Bellamy Bailey.

Amelia Musical Playhouse is owned and operated by Jill and Gregg Dillingham.  In just two years, Amelia Musical Playhouse has produced many critically acclaimed musicals including: Darryl Reuben Hall’s Frat House, Chicago, My Fair Lady, Spamalot, and All the King’s Women.

DATES:      TIMES:     VENUES:
November 11-12 at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 13 at 3.p.m, Amelia Musical Playhouse.
November 18 -19 at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 20 at 3.p.m, Amelia Musical Playhouse. November 26 at 8 p.m.; Nov. 27 at 3 p.m., Ritz Theatre and Museum.

TICKETS: Amelia Musical Playhouse All Seats: $20.00, please visit: Amelia musical playhouse.
     For the Ritz $20/Advance and $25.00/Door, please visit Ticketmaster.com.  For more information, please contact Stage Aurora Theatrical Company at (904) 765-7373.

LOCATIONS:
Stage Aurora Theatrical Company
    The Ritz Theater
    829 N Davis St.
    Jacksonville, FL 32202
      AND
Stage Aurora at Amelia Musical Playhouse
    Amelia Musical Playhouse
   1955 Island Walkway
    Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

‘DREAMGIRLS’ audition notice for Stage Aurora Theatrical Co


Stage Aurora Theatrical Company, Inc. in collaboration with The Ritz Theatre and Museum and Amelia Musical Playhouse is announcing auditions for the Tony Award winning musical DREAMGIRLS, book by Tom Eyen and music by Henry Krieger.  The production is spearheaded by Jereme Raickett and Darryl Reuben Hall and vocal direction by Drickus Horne.  Audition information is as follows:

Audition Dates: Sat., Amelia Musical Playhouse 10 a m2 p.m.
Audition Dates: Ritz Theatre Sun., Sept. 11 36 p.m., Mon., Sept. 12 68:30 p.m.
Performance Dates: Amelia Musical Playhouse November 1120
Performance Dates: Ritz Theatre and Museum November 2627

Rehearsals Start: Around October 1, 2016

About the show:
Winner of 6 Tony Awards, Dreamgirls is a Broadway musical, with music by Henry Krieger and lyrics and book by Tom Eyen. Based upon the show business aspirations and successes of R&B acts such as The Supremes, The Shirelles, James Brown, Jackie Wilson, and others, the musical follows the story of a young female singing trio from Chicago, Illinois called "The Dreams", who become music superstars.  A smash Broadway musical, "Dreamgirls" sizzles with fabulous costumes, dazzling dance and the legendary hit songs "Dreamgirls" and "I Am Telling You I'm Not Going." "Dreamgirls" is a show about a time in American musical history when what is called rhythm and blues blended with other styles of popular music creating a new American sound.  There’s lots of onstage joy and backstage drama, the sensational new production of Dreamgirls tells the story of an up-and-coming 1960s girl singing group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. With music by Academy Award nominee Henry Krieger and book and lyrics by Tony and Grammy Award winner Tom Eyen.

For more information, please contact Stage Aurora at stageaurora@hotmail.com .

Cast Breakdown (Ages 16+) All Nationalities are a Must!!!
Effie Melody White
: Female, 20-40ish, African American – powerful belt, large and in charge, lead singer of The Dreamettes. Journeys from snappy confidence to depths of betrayal, but triumphs in the end. Seeking actor with willingness to dig deep emotionally as well as belt.

Deena Jones
: Female, 18-40ish, African American – mezzo soprano, initially modest backup singer for Dreamettes. Replaces Effie, under pressure. And falls for Curtis, knowing Effie had him.  The Diana Ross-esq. character, so must move from innocent to “star.”

Lorrell Robinson
: Female, 18-30ish, African American – soprano, the youngest backup singer. Speaks her mind. Eager for success, swept off her feet by married James Thunder Early. High energy and attitude encouraged for this role, with a touch of the romantic.

Michelle Morris
: Female, 18-40ish, African American – soprano, replacement backup for Effie. Wants to stay out of in-fighting. Falls in love with C.C., and helps bring brother and sister together in the end.

Curtis Taylor
: Male, 25-45ish, African American – tenor/high baritone, a Cadillac dealer turned the Dreams’ brilliant manager, then music mogul. Charming, smooth, and funny, he’s ruthless in the pursuit of his dreams. Dumps Effie and James in pursuit of glory.

C.C. White
: Male, 20-30, African American – tenor, talented song writer for the Dreamettes/Dreams and is Effie’s brother. Initially enthralled by Curtis’ business smarts.

James "Thunder" Early:
Male, 30-50, African American – tenor/strong falsetto, a James Brown- like flashy star of early R&B that Curtis steals from Marty. A trendsetter, but trends pass him by. Be ready to be a showman, and let loose.

Marty Madison
: Male, 40’s-60’s, African American – baritone, early manager of James Early, cleans up after many of James’ messes, old-school, honest and loyal.

Ensemble And Featured Roles (10-20 Parts) All Nationalities Welcome!!!
Dave (& The Sweethearts
/Pat Boone types)
Wayne
... Male, assistant to Curtis
Frank
... Male, press agent
Dwight
... Male, TV director
M.C.
... Male or Female (as male), master of ceremonies at The Apollo Theater
Charlene & Joann
... Females, backup singers for J.T. Early
Morgan
... Male, Effie’s lawyer
Jerry
... Male or Female Nightclub owner

Male and Female Singing Groups to be double-cast: Female Groups: STEPP SISTERS ... LES STYLE ... [DAVE] &THE SWEETHEARTS Male Groups: LITTLE ALPERT & THE TRUE-TONES ... THE FIVE TUXEDOS ... TINY JOE DIXON

AUDITIONS
Questions: Please Email Stage Aurora