"all you have to do is dream"

Dreamgirls. This was not the 2+ hour long ode to Beyonce that I feared. Nor was it the "let me show you how good Jennifer Hudson really is!" star vehicle I feared as well. It was simply an entertaining thinly veiled story of Motown's history, particularly it's dealing with the Supreme's. I can't comment on its accuracy in terms of the history of Motown. Unfortunately, I cannot comment on its accuracy in terms of sticking with the original stage production. What I can comment on was my experience as a first-time viewer of the story. For simplicity's sake I'll say: I really liked it.

The story of the Dreamettes turned Dreams and their rise to the top of the charts, with the help of a determined Curtis Taylor, Jr. (Gordy anyone?!) is simple and no doubt true to what happens a lot in the music business. Though I had little sympathy for the Taylor character I admired his drive to have Black musicians break through and own their own music. It's a classic story of power corrupting someone and greed taking over. It was told with such dazzling costumes and good music though that I hardly minded hearing it again.

Let me put it out there: I am no one's Beyonce fan. I find her monochromatic presentation disturbing plus there are hundreds of other women who can sing better. That's why she was perfect for the role of Deena Jones! Her life and Deena's are so parallel it's spooky!

I enjoyed the music as well. The singing was done by the actors and I can honestly say no one made me cringe. Jennifer Hudson- wow. I have always been of the opinion that NO ONE other than Jennifer Holliday should sing "And I'm telling you". Countless 'Showtime at the Apollo" performances have made me a bitter woman. HOWEVER, maybe people whose names are Jennifer and their last name starts with an 'H' can be the exception to the rule. The woman sang. I felt her desperation so much I shed a tear. It was awkward, there was snot, there were tears, there was foot stomping - everything I imagine I would do if I had to sing that to the man I love as he walks away. I don't know about winning the Oscar but I am damned proud she got some recognition.

Enjoyable musical. You hardly notice the running time and you're bound to leave humming somthin'! A.