Trustus Theatre Presents DREAMGIRLS, Now thru 8/1

Trustus Theatre is bringing the hit musical Dreamgirls to the Thigpen Main Stage this summer. Winner of over a dozen prestigious awards, this show tells the dramatic story of a singing group that makes it big while changing the face and sound of popular music in the 1960s. Dreamgirls opens on the Thigpen Main Stage tonight, June 26th at 8:00pm. The show runs through August 1st, 2015. A talk-back will follow the performance on July 26th. Tickets may be purchased at www.trustus.org.

When Trustus Theatre announced in 2014 that it would be producing the hit musical Dreamgirls in the summer of its 30th Anniversary season, patrons instantly began contacting the box office to make reservations. The show was positioned to be a summer hit before rehearsals began. Under the direction of award-winning choreographer and theatre artist Terrance Henderson and the music direction of Trustus Company Member Walter Graham, Dreamgirls promises to be a sensational production that brings one of the most ambitious projects in Trustus history to the Thigpen Main Stage.

Dreamgirls transports audiences to the 1960s. Set against the socio-political backdrop of this era and the subsequent decade, this hit show sizzles with obvious nods to the music machine that was Motown and its iconic performers. Audiences are introduced to singers Effie, Lorrell, and Deena, who are about to find out just what it's like to have their wildest dreams come true. Discovered at a local talent show by ambitious manager Curtis Taylor Jr., the trio known as "The Dreamettes" is soon offered the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of opening for popular singer James "Thunder" Early. Subsequently molded into an unstoppable hit machine by Taylor and propelled into the spotlight as "The Dreams," the girls quickly find their bid for the big time taking priority over personal friendships as Taylor edges out the ultra-talented Effie so that the more beautiful Deena can become the face of the group. Now, as the crossover act continues to dominate the airwaves, these girls with big dreams slowly begin to realize that the true cost of fame may be higher than any of them ever anticipated.

Director Terrance Henderson and the production team have remained ambitious throughout this process as they prepare to open one of the largest productions in the history of the theatre. Scenic designer Baxter Engle has created a set that will offer movement and countless locations throughout the evening. With sweeping curtains and rolling archways, audiences will be reminded of the Ed Sullivan show and Radio City Music Hall. Costumes designed by Alexis Doktor bring the era to life with creations of which Diana Ross herself would surely approve. Add an eight-piece band with horns to the mix, and the sights and sounds of the 60s and 70s will come alive for audiences every night.

Trustus Theatre's Dreamgirls opens on the Thigpen Main Stage on Friday, June 26th at 8:00pm and runs through August 1st, 2015. Showtimes for Dreamgirls are 7:30pm on Thursdays, 8:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3:00pm on Sundays. No performances during the week of July 4th. Tickets for musicals are $35.00 for adults, $33.00 for military and seniors, and $25.00 for students. Half-price Student Rush-Tickets are available 15 minutes prior to curtain.

Trustus Theatre is located at 520 Lady Street, behind the Gervais St. Publix. Parking is available on Lady St. and on Pulaski St. The Main Stage entrance is located on the Publix side of the building.

For more information or reservations call the box office Tuesdays through Saturdays 1-6 pm at 803-254-9732. Visit www.trustus.org for all show information and season information.