Stage Door Theatre to Stage DREAMGIRLS This Fall

1962 at the world famous Apollo Theatre in New York City. It's a time in American musical history when a new sound is percolating. The Dreamettes, a trio of aspiring R & B singers, arrive late for a talent contest they hope will launch their musical career.

Dreamgirls, the award-winning Broadway hit (6 Tony Awards, 5 Drama Desk Awards, 2 Grammy Awards), opening at Broward Stage Door Theatre on November 3rd, is the story of these three women - on stage and off.

Kevin Black will direct the production. Black is a 2017 Silver Palm Award winner - recognized for his direction and choreography of his own show, Swing! Swing! Swing! which had its world premiere at Stage Door Theatre in October 2016. "On the surface, Dreamgirls is a show about the ups and downs of the music industry," Black says. "But once you did deeper, you discover it's a show about family.

"Even though Dreamgirls opened in 1981, and takes place in the 60's and 70's, the show's message is just as relevant today," he explains. "And we are really striving to relate this story to today's challenges: the struggle for minorities; the drive to be famous; the cost of success and what that can do to an individual - and to their family.

"We have an amazing cast of 18," Black continues. "Sarah Gracel is playing the lead role of Effie. Elijah Word is James 'Thunder' Early, and Don Seward will play Curtis Taylor, Jr."

Also cast are Charisse Shields, Sheena O. Murray, Cherise James, Andre Russell, James White, Joshua Conner, Sandi Stock, Natalie McPherson, Patrick Kolta, Richard Forbes, Alexander Domingue, Jabriel Shelton, Brettnie Black, Stephon Duncan, and Daryl Patrice.

Danny Durr will choreograph Dreamgirls and James Weber will provide the show's musical direction. Sound design is by Rushnay Henry, set and lighting design is by Ardean Landhuis, and costume design is by Jerry Sturdefant. Dreamgirls' technical director is Paul O'Donnell, and the show's stage manager is Nancy Clay, assisted by Amanda Eisele.

Dreamgirls will run from November 3rd through December 10th at Stage Door Theatre. The theatre is located at 8036 Sample Road, in Margate. Tickets for Dreamgirls are $48. (Student prices are also available with valid ID). Tickets may be purchased at the Broward Stage Door Theatre box office at 954-344-7765 or online at www.stagedoorfl.org.

Pictured: Charisse Shields, Sarah Gracel and Sheena O. Murray. Photo by Carol Kassie.

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