The film of the Henry Krieger-Tom Eyen musical Dreamgirls made big headlines this year as it pulled in Golden Globe and Oscar nominations, especially when one-time “American Idol” finalist Jennifer Hudson won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for the role of Effie. During the National Black Arts Festival this summer, Atlanta audiences will have the chance to see the musical’s original Effie, Tony Award-winning actress Jennifer Holliday, when Theater of the Stars (TOTS) brings Dreamgirls to the Fox Theatre July 19-29 as part of its 55th Anniversary season.
“We’re presenting shows with some of the most glorious songs and most exuberant dancing ever,” says TOTS Producer Christopher B. Manos.
Here’s a look at TOTS’ 2007 season:
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (June 26-July 1) – Seven brothers in the backwoods of 1850s Oregon decide to head to town and capture wives; during a long, cold winter, they show how far romance and fancy footwork go towards melting women’s hearts.
Dreamgirls (July 19-29) – A 1960s girl group discovers the cost of fame in this high-spirited and soulful musical, loosely based on the rise of Diana Ross and the Supremes.
The Wizard of Oz (August 4-11) – Journey with Dorothy (and dozens of local child actors) down the yellow brick road through the wonderful world of Oz; an adaptation of the beloved MGM film, complete with Toto, the Tin Man and the Wicked Witch of the West.
West Side Story (August 21-26) – A 1950s update of Romeo and Juliet, set amid the street gangs of New York’s Hell’s Kitchen, with a musical score by Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim.
Stomp (September 18-23) – Musician/dancers transform everyday objects such as brooms and Zippo lighters into percussion instruments in this high-energy show.
White Christmas (November 6-11) – Two Broadway actors on vacation in Vermont pursue a set of singing sisters in this new musical adaptation of the classic 1954 film, featuring a score by Irving Berlin.
All shows will be presented at the Fox Theatre. For more information, call 404-252-8960 or visit theaterofthestars.com.
