Dreamgirls in Concert (2001 Concert Cast)
A Chorus Linemay be better known, butDreamgirlswas a towering achievement for director Michael Bennett. Loosely based on theSupremes' story, the 1982 musical told a typical show-biz tale of fame, backbiting, and survival. As is often the case for one-night only events, the cast in this concert version (recorded in New York on September 24, 2001) is led by an eye-popping assortment of Broadway powerhouses:Lillias White(The Life),Audra McDonald(Ragtime,Marie Christine), andHeather Headley(Ragtime). McDonald reveals a previously undisclosed comic streak, while Headley confirms her status as a rising star. Reprising the role of Effie Melody White (created by Jennifer Holliday), White belts the classic "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going." But the beauty ofDreamgirlsis that it's so packed with catchy, Motown-influenced R&B; numbers that each lead can sink her teeth into some prime material and get a turn in the spotlight. This double-CD set really makes you wish you'd been there when the show was recorded: you can hear the crowd going berserk at times, and the temptation is strong to do the same thing in the comfort of your living room.--Elisabeth Vincentelli