REVIEW: Dreamgirls at the Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham - a real Christmas showstopper

Bursting with talent but betrayed by her boyfriend, Dreamgirls star Effie White (played by Nicole Raquel Dennis) simply stunned the full house with her rendition of And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.

It was a jaw dropping end to the first half of this utterly captivating musical playing at the Alexandra Theatre until December 31.

The story is based around three friends from Chicago who form a girl group during the heady days of Motown which began in 1960s Detroit, and dream of stardom - even calling themselves the Dreamettes.

But the path to fame and fortune had plenty of twists and turns and Effie, Deena, Lorrell - and their 11 counterparts - ensured the audience were fully on board with each and every turn.

It’s a beautiful story bringing a much welcome warmth to these cold winter times and is a perfect treat for Christmas. The singing is the highlight - some fantastic music, including the spectacular One Night Only, performed brilliantly.

There are some unexpected laughs along the way and the friendship and bonds between the girls will bring a tear to your eye.

The live orchestra intensified the impact of the impressive score by Henry Krieger and the stylish 60s sets and costumes were a joy to see.

The award-winning Broadway musical was first performed in 1981 and is loosely set around the showbiz aspirations and success of R&B acts including The Supremes, James Brown and Jackie Wilson.

This production has come to Birmingham hot off the stages of London’s West End. Performer Nicole (who plays Effie) was a semi finalist in The Voice in 2019 - you may remember her brilliant duet with Jennifer Hudson.

If you haven’t booked to see a Christmas show yet, don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to see this incredible musical, and if you have got tickets, well - you’re in for a real treat!

For more information and to book go to: The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham