Previously on stage at Harlem’s world famous Apollo Theater in New York City and a critically-acclaimed tour of the USA, a brand new, sensational stage production of DREAMGIRLS featuring an all-South African 26-member cast premiered at the Teatro Johannesburg on 11 March 2011. The show runs until 22 May 2011, thereafter moving to Artscape, Cape Town, opening on 8 June 2011 for a limited season.
This is the first time an international show of this scale is showcasing exclusively black South African performers. Dreamgirls is produced by leading South African Producer, Hazel Feldman (Chicago, We Will Rock You, MAMMA MIA!, Beauty & the Beast) of Showtime Management and American Producer, John Breglio, for Vienna Waits Productions. There are some 450 costumes and 180 wigs in this sizzling production – as well as construction of a state-of-the-art, hi-tech stage design and LED screens.
Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, DREAMGIRLS tells the rags-to-riches story of an up and coming, 1960s girl group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. With music by Academy® Award nominee Henry Krieger and book and lyrics by Tony® and Grammy®-Award winner Tom Eyen, DREAMGIRLS features the unforgettable hits: "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going," "One Night Only" and "Listen." Broadway director and choreographer Robert Longbottom (Bye Bye Birdie) and co-choreographer Shane Sparks (TV's So You Think You Can Dance), along with some of Broadway's top designers, re-envision this Tony® and Academy® Award winning musical so it sparkles like never before!
This revival of Dreamgirls brings back the original show, but acknowledges and embraces the almost 30-year journey since its creation but with fresh, contemporary movement and style.
Dreamgirls has introduced Lindiwe Bungane (winner African continent television reality show - Project Fame, multiple award winning singer) as Effie White and feature, as The Dreams, Cape Town born Tracey Lee Oliver (Motown Magic, Sisters in Song) as Deena Jones; Candida Mosoma (Jesus Christ Superstar, The Lion King, Let There be Rock) as Lorrell Robinson and Hayley Christian (The Best of Girl Talk, Motown, Sisters in Song) as Michelle Morris with Aubrey Poo (Scandal!, Muvhango, All You Need is Love, Rent and upcoming movie, Winnie – a life) as Curtis Taylor. Introducing a brilliant new face in musical theatre, Bjorn Blignaut (Pop star group winner; Idols competition top 6; Barnyard Theatre shows) as the coveted James “Thunder” Early; Lebo Toko (Mamma Mia!, Ragtime the Musical, Boys in the Photograph) as C.C. White, Shane “Duke” Wellington (feature movies - Mr Bones and Surviving Katrina, MC FIFA Confederations Cup 2009) as Marty Madison. At certain performances, Caroline Borole (GirlTalk 005, top 10 SA Idols 2007, Generations) will play the role of Effie White. The show gives these musical theatre performers the opportunity to literally live the Dreamgirls dream.
The visiting American creative team currently in South Africa working with the local cast is headed by Broadway Director and choreographer, Robert Longbottom assisted by Brittney Griffen, co-director and choreographer. The South African creative team is led by Bryan Schimmel, Musical Supervisor and introduces Tshepo Mngoma as Musical Director. Trudy Fredericks is Resident Choreographer and Dance Captain; Philip Godawa is Resident Director; Alistair Kilbee is Technical Director and Jill Somers is Company Manager. The local and global creative teams are working together for seven weeks to present Dreamgirls, featuring an entirely South African company.
“All you got to do is Dream”. Book now at Computicket outlets, by visiting www.computicket.com, or by calling 083 915 8000. Group bookings, contact email sales@showtime.co.za. For all Teatro group hospitality bookings contact Montecasino Hospitality & Corporate Events on 011 510 7905 or montecasino.hospitality@tsogosun.com
For more information, please visit the official DREAMGIRLS website at www.dreamgirls.co.za or Facebook.
SHOW INFORMATION:
J O H A N N E S B U R G
VENUE:
Teatro at Montecasino
DATES:
From Friday, 11 March 2011 for a limited season
SHOW TIMES:
No Monday performances.
Weekdays: Tuesdays – Fridays 20h00
Weekends: Saturdays 15h00, 20h00; Sundays 14h00, 18h00
PRICES:
Terrific Tuesday Specials: One price - R195 inclusive
Wednesday/Thursday/Sunday Evening: From R120 - R350 inclusive
Friday/Saturday (both shows)/Sunday Matinees: From R120 - R380 inclusive
BOOKINGS:
Computicket by calling 083 915 8000, visit www.computicket.com or
visit your nearest Computicket outlet
CORPORATE & GROUP BOOKINGS:
Jeanette Oosthuizen, sales@showtime.co.za
GROUP HOSPITALITY PACKAGES:
Montecasino Hospitality & Corporate Events, 011 510 7905 or montecasino.hospitality@tsogosun.com
C A P E T O W N
VENUE:
Artscape
DATES:
From Wednesday, 08 June 2011 for a limited season
SHOW TIMES:
No Monday performances
Weekdays: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursday, Fridays 20h00.
Weekends: Saturday 16h00, 20h00; Sunday 14h00, 18h00
PRICES:
Terrific Tuesday Specials: One price - R195 inclusive
Wednesday/Thursday/Sunday Evening: From R120 - R350 inclusive
Friday/Saturday (both shows)/Sunday Matinees: From R120 - R380 inclusive
BOOKINGS:
Computicket by calling 083 915 8000, visit www.computicket.com or visit your nearest Computicket outlet or call Artscape Box Office 021 421 7695
CORPORATE & GROUP BOOKINGS:
Jeanette Oosthuizen,sales@showtime.co.za
####
Publicist: Dreamgirls South Africa
Debbi de Souza
(082) 822 9478 (t)
(031) 561 4000 (f)
debranne@icon.co.za (e)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-f5Vfvxv9JI - You Tube link to the Dreamgirls Sizzle Reel
This is the first time an international show of this scale will showcase exclusively black South African performers who play the show's African American characters. There are some 450 costumes and 180 wigs in this production, set in the 1960's. Rehearsals are currently underway and the show opens in Johannesburg at the Teatro on 11 March. The show's storyline is similar to that of the movie by the same name but the show itself which includes glamorous, glitzy costumes is a multi-media spectacular presentation.
Herewith some interesting facts about the show - more info on www.dreamgirls.co.za:
1. The story line featured in the movie version of Dreamgirls is based on the stage musical which was first
staged in 1981.
2. This new production of Dreamgirls is a multi-media spectacular with state-of-the-art, hi-tech stage design and LED screens. The cast will wear glamourous, dazzling
colourful costumes - all glitz and glam.
3. There are some 450 costumes and 180 wigs in this production. Costumes are designed by award winning American costume designer, William Ivey Long.
4. Hazel Feldman of Showtime Management, the show's SA Producers will be mentoring cast musicians and crew on the production.
5. The American creative team are spending a total of 7 weeks in rehearsal with the SA company, with a view of not only mounting a world-class SA production but with the vision to ensuring
that many members of this cast will be able to star internationally in other DREAMGIRLS productions around the world.
6. Principal performers Lindiwe Bungane, Tracey Lee Oliver, Caroline Borole, Hayley Christian, Shane Wellington and from the ensemble, Ziyanda Yako will be performing for the first time in a
major international musical theatre production. For principal performer, Bjorn Blignaut and ensemble members, Mmabatho Moepowa, Clint Lesh, Nicholas Nkuna and Sifiso Mazibuko,
Dreamgirls is their second musical theatre production. The show gives these newcomers to musical theatre the opportunity to literally live the Dreamgirls dream.
7. SA Creative Team:
Producer: Hazel Feldman
Musical Director: Tshepo Mngoma (Sibongile Khumalo's son)
Musical Supervisor: Bryan Schimmel
Assistant Musical Director: Rowan Bakker
Company Manager: Jill Somers
Resident Director: Philip Godawa
Technical Director: Alistair Kilbee
8. American Creative Team:
Producer: John Breglio
Director and choreographer: Robert Longbottom
Associate Choreographer: Brittney Griffin
International Music Supervisor: Sam Davis
Biographies - Leads
Lindiwe Bungane (Effie White) Born in Zambia, Lindiwe is the youngest female to receive the highest Zambian music award, ‘Ngoma Award’ for best female performer when she was just 19 years old. This started her journey as a performing artist. She quickly scooped the same title in the ‘Battle of the Band’ held the in the capital Lusaka the following year and this led to her wonderful singing talents being recognised. She has since received a ‘Mukuba music achievement award’ and is the youngest woman to be honoured in a book entitled “100 women celebrated in Zambia”. She has performed at many prestigious events around the world while also as an ambassador of good will for her country. Events include the Live 8 concert held in Johannesburg South Africa, the Sydney Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland. She opened the world renowned theater production “House of the Holy Afro” for which her character received rave newspaper reviews in every city across the globe, wherever the show opened including Sydney and Edinburgh. The climax of her career was winning “Project Fame” a television reality show in 2006 which auditioned over 10 million artists from around the continent of Africa to show off their vocal talents for recording contract with Sony BMG South Africa. She unfortunately did not receive this prize amongst other things but this did not deter her from pursuing her dream. She has recorded an album which she hopes to share with the world soon.
Tracey-Lee Oliver (Deena Jones) hails from the beautiful Mother City of Cape Town. This Naledi nominated performer has built a good foundation for herself as the ‘’Diva’’ of Jo’burg’s live entertainment industry. Her accomplishments include performing at Gold Reef City’s The Globe Theatre and The Lyric Theatre where she has performed in Hazel Feldman’s Motown Magic; Richard Loring’s Knights of Music and Motown Magic Christmas. Tracey-Lee has also performed in Karin Cutts’ Sun City Extravaganza ‘’Let There be Rock’’ and she was a top 8 finalist in Kyknet’s 2006 Afrikaans Idols. She is currently seen in her first television commercial as ‘’Regular Jane’’ in the Kellogs All Bran advertisement. Other achievements also include working with SA’s heavyweights such as Harry Sideropolous’ Rand Easter 2008 Bollywood Spectacular, Strictly Come Dancing judge Tyrone Watkins’ Bollywood musical ‘’Fusion’’, Sun City’s ‘’Positive Rocks’ ’AIDS Benefit concert including acts Unathi (Metro fm DJ), Loyiso Bala, Freshly Ground, Wonderboom, Judith Sepuma, Sibongile Ngoma but to name a few. Tracey-Lee’s Naledi nomination this year was earned for her show stopping performance in the Richard Loring musical ‘’Knights of Music’’.
Candida Mosoma (Lorrell Robinson) Since graduating at Tshwane University of Technology's Musical Theatre course in 2005 Candida has graced the South African stages with her diverse talent in an array of musicals from Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar where she played Mary Magdalene, Pinocchio playing the blue fairy, The Lion King laughing her way through performance as the sly hyena Shenzi and understudying lioness Nala. She has stretched her effervescent talents in review shows, cabarets and lounge singing from Let There be Rock, Solouette to Hot Spots.
Hayley Christian (Michelle Morris) Born and raised in Johannesburg, Hayley started singing when she was three years old. Her first musical theatre show performance was in a ‘Happy Go Lucky’. In 1989 Hayley began five years of voice training under Professor Irene Frangs at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. Thereafter she achieved a distinction of 86% in the Royal Schools of Music, London examinations. Hayley’s international career began when she teamed up with a band called ‘New Generation” which toured China, Macau and Hong Kong. Hayley went on to join Cape Town band, ‘4 Play’ as lead vocalist and traveled to Egypt for three months followed by a second tour of six months. Then as part of a duo, Hayley performed in Amman-Jordan after which she decided to become a solo artist and returned to Jordan, followed by performances at the Amman Sheraton and the Red Sea Hotels in Egypt. Hayley returned to South Africa, performing at various corporate events for MTN, Coca-Cola, Nedcor, Nederburg Estates and the launch of ‘De Niro’ at Sandton Sun and Towers. She then joined the casts of The Best of Girl Talk directed by Richard Loring, Motown and Sisters in Song directed by Carlo Spettu. Career highlights include singing the American anthem at a boxing heavyweight championship at Caesars, Gauteng; traveling to the Seychelles to perform for Saudi Arabian royalty and performing at a function where ex-President Nelson Mandela was the guest of honour. Other special performances include touring Africa as guest artist with Dr. Victor and the Rasta Rebels; performing at various hotels in Spain and competing at the annual International Budsim competition where she won best vocalist above many other countries, achieving third position for South Africa.
Aubrey Poo (Curtis Taylor) is a South African actor, singer and Creative Director best known for his role as Pelo Mohale in the SABC2 soapie “Muvhango”, and for hosting the SABC1 “emotainment” show “All You Need is Love”. He recently completed two and a half years playing the role of Lefa on ETV’s Scandal! He also played the role of a pastor, Lefa Letswalo on the Etv soapie “Scandal!” Poo completed his National Diploma in drama at the Pretoria Technikon in (now know as Tshwane University of Technology) in 2000.In 2002, he won an award for Best Performance by a New Actor for his role in the critically acclaimed Play@Risk, directed by Megan Wilson. He then landed the lead role of Gabriel in the musical Far From the Madding Crowd at the Durban Playhouse and later traveled to Spain performing in the musical tribute to Motown. He is the Director of his company, Pono Pele Productions and he was a Creative Producer for the unveiling of the FIFA 2010 Emblem presented in Berlin (July 2006), his biggest project to date and he also co-wrote the most successful of the Barnyard Theatre works ever produced: Diamonds and Dust, in which he also performed the leading role. Pono Pele Productions boasts an impressive list of clients including NEF, Magana Carta, Basil Read, Lonmin Mining and Ideahub (to name, but a few). In 2005 and 2006, Poo broke into the TV and film industry with a lead role in the Afrikaans film Ouma se Slim Kind and roles in Gaz'lam, Muvhango, Zero Tolerance, Zone 14 and Nomzamo. His TV work repertoire is extensive…he has been seen on SABC as the male presenter of All You Need is Love; he played the role of documentary maker Themba in the SABC1 drama series Usindiso (Redemption); the role of Tebogo in the SABC2 mini-series Noah's Ark. He went back to musical theatre work in 2007, taking a sabbatical break from television when he played the romantic lead in the stage musical Soweto Story, followed by the lead role of Tom Collins in the musical Rent. Aubrey Poo has just completed shooting a supporting lead role in the upcoming movie “Winnie - a life” along side Jennifer Hudson.
Bjorn Blignaut (James “Thunder” Early) Hailing from Gauteng, Bjorn was born and raised in Johannesburg, Eldorado Park. At the age of 17, Bjorn started a singing group with his friends and called themselves, Boys to Men, adapted from the USA group. At this age he then entered the local television competition called Jam Alley and took the first place position, this was to lead to future successes. This then followed the success of winning the South African Pop stars SABC 1 competition and was part of the winning group called Ghetto Lingo. Bjorn’s career as a performer includes: Shell Road to Fame contestant; Jam Alley Winner; recording Album (Southside) in Europe; performing in various Clubs in Europe; launching album to Royal family in Belgium; promoting Album in Europe; Coca Cola Pop star group winner; M-net Idols competition top 6; Barnyard Theatre show, Hot Chocolate; Barnyard theatre show, Glory Days and Tyrone Watkins Productions: Spotlight)
Lebo Toko (C.C. White) is an actor, singer and dancer born in Bloemfontein. He studied Lebo Toko (CC White) Lebo studied Musical Theatre at Tshwane University of Technology where he took part in productions such as Sweet Charity; I Love You, Your Perfect Now Change and had the opportunity of playing the character role of Coalhouse Walker Jr. in the South African premier of Ragtime the Musical. Since graduating from T.U.T he has done two Children’s Theatre productions under the baton of The People’s Theatre and Promusica Theatre. Touch My Blood marked his debut at the Market Theatre where he had the opportunity to play the role of Fred Khumalo. He has also showed in the Musical Review The Blues Brothers as a Bluet, and played Mushu the Dragon during the run of the Children’s Theatre Stage Musical Mulan Jnr. He recently completed the run of The Boy's in The Photograph directed By Janice Honeyman at the Joburg Theatre! and MAMMA MIA!
Shane "Duke" Wellington (Marty Madison) is an experienced television and radio personality with many talents. Voice Artist, Radio DJ, Television Host, Ring Announcer, and Film Actor are just a few of the hats he has worn in his career. In the early 90’s, Shane began co-producing music for artists like MarcAlex, Hugh Masekela, the Sarafina Girls and Brenda Fassie to name a few, and he produced several jingles for radio. Shane was chosen as a judge for the SA Music Awards for 4 years. Shane's accent and his boundless enthusiasm got him into radio, first doing voice-overs for companies like Coca Cola, Disney Pictures, and SAA, and then working for radio stations like Solid Gold and 5FM. Shane's on-air presence gained him thousands of loyal listeners. Radio then lead to television where Shane hosted, or appeared on shows for SABC1, SABC2, SABC3, and ETV. In between all this, Shane appeared in numerous television commercials including Jik, Nosh, and Shield. He has acted in three feature films including "Mr. Bones" (Leon Schuster), "Styxx" (Brian 'Cocktails' Brown, Peter 'Robocop' Wheller), and "Surviving Katrina". Shane is a natural MC, and the corporate industry has recognized his abilities. He has hosted numerous public promotions, conferences, award shows, and live events for several well-known companies including the financial services industry, and the auto industry. Shane is recognized as one of South Africa’s top ring announcers, and he has announced several National and World Title bouts. FIFA took note, and used Shane during 2006 World Cup Trophy Tour, as well as the opening ceremony for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup. With his passion for life and his determination to be the best, Shane "Duke" Wellington is creating an inspiring legacy.
Caroline Borole (alternate Effie White) was first bitten by the “stage bug” at the tender age of 14 when she entered her high school talent show and won the contest. After matriculating in 2001 she enrolled at Tshwane University of Technology where she studied musical Theatre for three years under the wonderful guidance of Vicki Karras. She performed throughout her tertiary career, acting and singing in shows such as Stage Door and as one of the leads in Pippin. After completing her tertiary education Caroline joined Richard Loring’s Girl Talk 005, her first professional performance. She then performed an array of shows for the Barnyard Theatre including the Motown Hot Chocolate, Walking in Memphis and Under African Skies, a first time endorsed “proudly south African” show which saw her touring all over Europe and Turkey with the show before coming back to do yet another successful run throughout the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Caroline has shown her worth as a skilled actress in local television productions including a two-year stint at Generations and she was a supporting actress for Nomzamo and worked on a comedy show called On the Couch for SABC 3. Caroline was in the top 10 of the South African idols 2007.
Previously on stage at Harlem’s world famous Apollo Theater in New York City and a critically-acclaimed tour of the USA, a brand new, sensational stage production of DREAMGIRLS featuring an all-South African 26-member cast premiered at the Teatro Johannesburg on 11 March 2011. The show runs until 22 May 2011, thereafter moving to Artscape, Cape Town, opening on 8 June 2011 for a limited season.
This is the first time an international show of this scale is showcasing exclusively black South African performers. Dreamgirls is produced by leading South African Producer, Hazel Feldman (Chicago, We Will Rock You, MAMMA MIA!, Beauty & the Beast) of Showtime Management and American Producer, John Breglio, for Vienna Waits Productions. There are some 450 costumes and 180 wigs in this sizzling production – as well as construction of a state-of-the-art, hi-tech stage design and LED screens.
Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, DREAMGIRLS tells the rags-to-riches story of an up and coming, 1960s girl group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. With music by Academy® Award nominee Henry Krieger and book and lyrics by Tony® and Grammy®-Award winner Tom Eyen, DREAMGIRLS features the unforgettable hits: "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going," "One Night Only" and "Listen." Broadway director and choreographer Robert Longbottom (Bye Bye Birdie) and co-choreographer Shane Sparks (TV's So You Think You Can Dance), along with some of Broadway's top designers, re-envision this Tony® and Academy® Award winning musical so it sparkles like never before!
This revival of Dreamgirls brings back the original show, but acknowledges and embraces the almost 30-year journey since its creation but with fresh, contemporary movement and style.
Dreamgirls has introduced Lindiwe Bungane (winner African continent television reality show - Project Fame, multiple award winning singer) as Effie White and feature, as The Dreams, Cape Town born Tracey Lee Oliver (Motown Magic, Sisters in Song) as Deena Jones; Candida Mosoma (Jesus Christ Superstar, The Lion King, Let There be Rock) as Lorrell Robinson and Hayley Christian (The Best of Girl Talk, Motown, Sisters in Song) as Michelle Morris with Aubrey Poo (Scandal!, Muvhango, All You Need is Love, Rent and upcoming movie, Winnie – a life) as Curtis Taylor. Introducing a brilliant new face in musical theatre, Bjorn Blignaut (Pop star group winner; Idols competition top 6; Barnyard Theatre shows) as the coveted James “Thunder” Early; Lebo Toko (Mamma Mia!, Ragtime the Musical, Boys in the Photograph) as C.C. White, Shane “Duke” Wellington (feature movies - Mr Bones and Surviving Katrina, MC FIFA Confederations Cup 2009) as Marty Madison. At certain performances, Caroline Borole (GirlTalk 005, top 10 SA Idols 2007, Generations) will play the role of Effie White. The show gives these musical theatre performers the opportunity to literally live the Dreamgirls dream.
The visiting American creative team currently in South Africa working with the local cast is headed by Broadway Director and choreographer, Robert Longbottom assisted by Brittney Griffen, co-director and choreographer. The South African creative team is led by Bryan Schimmel, Musical Supervisor and introduces Tshepo Mngoma as Musical Director. Trudy Fredericks is Resident Choreographer and Dance Captain; Philip Godawa is Resident Director; Alistair Kilbee is Technical Director and Jill Somers is Company Manager. The local and global creative teams are working together for seven weeks to present Dreamgirls, featuring an entirely South African company.
“All you got to do is Dream”. Book now at Computicket outlets, by visiting www.computicket.com, or by calling 083 915 8000. Group bookings, contact email sales@showtime.co.za. For all Teatro group hospitality bookings contact Montecasino Hospitality & Corporate Events on 011 510 7905 or montecasino.hospitality@tsogosun.com
For more information, please visit the official DREAMGIRLS website at www.dreamgirls.co.za or Facebook.
SHOW INFORMATION:
J O H A N N E S B U R G
VENUE:
Teatro at Montecasino
DATES:
From Friday, 11 March 2011 for a limited season
SHOW TIMES:
No Monday performances.
Weekdays: Tuesdays – Fridays 20h00
Weekends: Saturdays 15h00, 20h00; Sundays 14h00, 18h00
PRICES:
Terrific Tuesday Specials: One price - R195 inclusive
Wednesday/Thursday/Sunday Evening: From R120 - R350 inclusive
Friday/Saturday (both shows)/Sunday Matinees: From R120 - R380 inclusive
BOOKINGS:
Computicket by calling 083 915 8000, visit www.computicket.com or
visit your nearest Computicket outlet
CORPORATE & GROUP BOOKINGS:
Jeanette Oosthuizen, sales@showtime.co.za
GROUP HOSPITALITY PACKAGES:
Montecasino Hospitality & Corporate Events, 011 510 7905 or montecasino.hospitality@tsogosun.com
C A P E T O W N
VENUE:
Artscape
DATES:
From Wednesday, 08 June 2011 for a limited season
SHOW TIMES:
No Monday performances
Weekdays: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursday, Fridays 20h00.
Weekends: Saturday 16h00, 20h00; Sunday 14h00, 18h00
PRICES:
Terrific Tuesday Specials: One price - R195 inclusive
Wednesday/Thursday/Sunday Evening: From R120 - R350 inclusive
Friday/Saturday (both shows)/Sunday Matinees: From R120 - R380 inclusive
BOOKINGS:
Computicket by calling 083 915 8000, visit www.computicket.com or visit your nearest Computicket outlet or call Artscape Box Office 021 421 7695
CORPORATE & GROUP BOOKINGS:
Jeanette Oosthuizen,sales@showtime.co.za
####
Publicist: Dreamgirls South Africa
Debbi de Souza
(082) 822 9478 (t)
(031) 561 4000 (f)
debranne@icon.co.za (e)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-f5Vfvxv9JI - You Tube link to the Dreamgirls Sizzle Reel
This is the first time an international show of this scale will showcase exclusively black South African performers who play the show's African American characters. There are some 450 costumes and 180 wigs in this production, set in the 1960's. Rehearsals are currently underway and the show opens in Johannesburg at the Teatro on 11 March. The show's storyline is similar to that of the movie by the same name but the show itself which includes glamorous, glitzy costumes is a multi-media spectacular presentation.
Herewith some interesting facts about the show - more info on www.dreamgirls.co.za:
1. The story line featured in the movie version of Dreamgirls is based on the stage musical which was first
staged in 1981.
2. This new production of Dreamgirls is a multi-media spectacular with state-of-the-art, hi-tech stage design and LED screens. The cast will wear glamourous, dazzling
colourful costumes - all glitz and glam.
3. There are some 450 costumes and 180 wigs in this production. Costumes are designed by award winning American costume designer, William Ivey Long.
4. Hazel Feldman of Showtime Management, the show's SA Producers will be mentoring cast musicians and crew on the production.
5. The American creative team are spending a total of 7 weeks in rehearsal with the SA company, with a view of not only mounting a world-class SA production but with the vision to ensuring
that many members of this cast will be able to star internationally in other DREAMGIRLS productions around the world.
6. Principal performers Lindiwe Bungane, Tracey Lee Oliver, Caroline Borole, Hayley Christian, Shane Wellington and from the ensemble, Ziyanda Yako will be performing for the first time in a
major international musical theatre production. For principal performer, Bjorn Blignaut and ensemble members, Mmabatho Moepowa, Clint Lesh, Nicholas Nkuna and Sifiso Mazibuko,
Dreamgirls is their second musical theatre production. The show gives these newcomers to musical theatre the opportunity to literally live the Dreamgirls dream.
7. SA Creative Team:
Producer: Hazel Feldman
Musical Director: Tshepo Mngoma (Sibongile Khumalo's son)
Musical Supervisor: Bryan Schimmel
Assistant Musical Director: Rowan Bakker
Company Manager: Jill Somers
Resident Director: Philip Godawa
Technical Director: Alistair Kilbee
8. American Creative Team:
Producer: John Breglio
Director and choreographer: Robert Longbottom
Associate Choreographer: Brittney Griffin
International Music Supervisor: Sam Davis
Biographies - Leads
Lindiwe Bungane (Effie White) Born in Zambia, Lindiwe is the youngest female to receive the highest Zambian music award, ‘Ngoma Award’ for best female performer when she was just 19 years old. This started her journey as a performing artist. She quickly scooped the same title in the ‘Battle of the Band’ held the in the capital Lusaka the following year and this led to her wonderful singing talents being recognised. She has since received a ‘Mukuba music achievement award’ and is the youngest woman to be honoured in a book entitled “100 women celebrated in Zambia”. She has performed at many prestigious events around the world while also as an ambassador of good will for her country. Events include the Live 8 concert held in Johannesburg South Africa, the Sydney Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland. She opened the world renowned theater production “House of the Holy Afro” for which her character received rave newspaper reviews in every city across the globe, wherever the show opened including Sydney and Edinburgh. The climax of her career was winning “Project Fame” a television reality show in 2006 which auditioned over 10 million artists from around the continent of Africa to show off their vocal talents for recording contract with Sony BMG South Africa. She unfortunately did not receive this prize amongst other things but this did not deter her from pursuing her dream. She has recorded an album which she hopes to share with the world soon.
Tracey-Lee Oliver (Deena Jones) hails from the beautiful Mother City of Cape Town. This Naledi nominated performer has built a good foundation for herself as the ‘’Diva’’ of Jo’burg’s live entertainment industry. Her accomplishments include performing at Gold Reef City’s The Globe Theatre and The Lyric Theatre where she has performed in Hazel Feldman’s Motown Magic; Richard Loring’s Knights of Music and Motown Magic Christmas. Tracey-Lee has also performed in Karin Cutts’ Sun City Extravaganza ‘’Let There be Rock’’ and she was a top 8 finalist in Kyknet’s 2006 Afrikaans Idols. She is currently seen in her first television commercial as ‘’Regular Jane’’ in the Kellogs All Bran advertisement. Other achievements also include working with SA’s heavyweights such as Harry Sideropolous’ Rand Easter 2008 Bollywood Spectacular, Strictly Come Dancing judge Tyrone Watkins’ Bollywood musical ‘’Fusion’’, Sun City’s ‘’Positive Rocks’ ’AIDS Benefit concert including acts Unathi (Metro fm DJ), Loyiso Bala, Freshly Ground, Wonderboom, Judith Sepuma, Sibongile Ngoma but to name a few. Tracey-Lee’s Naledi nomination this year was earned for her show stopping performance in the Richard Loring musical ‘’Knights of Music’’.
Candida Mosoma (Lorrell Robinson) Since graduating at Tshwane University of Technology's Musical Theatre course in 2005 Candida has graced the South African stages with her diverse talent in an array of musicals from Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar where she played Mary Magdalene, Pinocchio playing the blue fairy, The Lion King laughing her way through performance as the sly hyena Shenzi and understudying lioness Nala. She has stretched her effervescent talents in review shows, cabarets and lounge singing from Let There be Rock, Solouette to Hot Spots.
Hayley Christian (Michelle Morris) Born and raised in Johannesburg, Hayley started singing when she was three years old. Her first musical theatre show performance was in a ‘Happy Go Lucky’. In 1989 Hayley began five years of voice training under Professor Irene Frangs at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. Thereafter she achieved a distinction of 86% in the Royal Schools of Music, London examinations. Hayley’s international career began when she teamed up with a band called ‘New Generation” which toured China, Macau and Hong Kong. Hayley went on to join Cape Town band, ‘4 Play’ as lead vocalist and traveled to Egypt for three months followed by a second tour of six months. Then as part of a duo, Hayley performed in Amman-Jordan after which she decided to become a solo artist and returned to Jordan, followed by performances at the Amman Sheraton and the Red Sea Hotels in Egypt. Hayley returned to South Africa, performing at various corporate events for MTN, Coca-Cola, Nedcor, Nederburg Estates and the launch of ‘De Niro’ at Sandton Sun and Towers. She then joined the casts of The Best of Girl Talk directed by Richard Loring, Motown and Sisters in Song directed by Carlo Spettu. Career highlights include singing the American anthem at a boxing heavyweight championship at Caesars, Gauteng; traveling to the Seychelles to perform for Saudi Arabian royalty and performing at a function where ex-President Nelson Mandela was the guest of honour. Other special performances include touring Africa as guest artist with Dr. Victor and the Rasta Rebels; performing at various hotels in Spain and competing at the annual International Budsim competition where she won best vocalist above many other countries, achieving third position for South Africa.
Aubrey Poo (Curtis Taylor) is a South African actor, singer and Creative Director best known for his role as Pelo Mohale in the SABC2 soapie “Muvhango”, and for hosting the SABC1 “emotainment” show “All You Need is Love”. He recently completed two and a half years playing the role of Lefa on ETV’s Scandal! He also played the role of a pastor, Lefa Letswalo on the Etv soapie “Scandal!” Poo completed his National Diploma in drama at the Pretoria Technikon in (now know as Tshwane University of Technology) in 2000.In 2002, he won an award for Best Performance by a New Actor for his role in the critically acclaimed Play@Risk, directed by Megan Wilson. He then landed the lead role of Gabriel in the musical Far From the Madding Crowd at the Durban Playhouse and later traveled to Spain performing in the musical tribute to Motown. He is the Director of his company, Pono Pele Productions and he was a Creative Producer for the unveiling of the FIFA 2010 Emblem presented in Berlin (July 2006), his biggest project to date and he also co-wrote the most successful of the Barnyard Theatre works ever produced: Diamonds and Dust, in which he also performed the leading role. Pono Pele Productions boasts an impressive list of clients including NEF, Magana Carta, Basil Read, Lonmin Mining and Ideahub (to name, but a few). In 2005 and 2006, Poo broke into the TV and film industry with a lead role in the Afrikaans film Ouma se Slim Kind and roles in Gaz'lam, Muvhango, Zero Tolerance, Zone 14 and Nomzamo. His TV work repertoire is extensive…he has been seen on SABC as the male presenter of All You Need is Love; he played the role of documentary maker Themba in the SABC1 drama series Usindiso (Redemption); the role of Tebogo in the SABC2 mini-series Noah's Ark. He went back to musical theatre work in 2007, taking a sabbatical break from television when he played the romantic lead in the stage musical Soweto Story, followed by the lead role of Tom Collins in the musical Rent. Aubrey Poo has just completed shooting a supporting lead role in the upcoming movie “Winnie - a life” along side Jennifer Hudson.
Bjorn Blignaut (James “Thunder” Early) Hailing from Gauteng, Bjorn was born and raised in Johannesburg, Eldorado Park. At the age of 17, Bjorn started a singing group with his friends and called themselves, Boys to Men, adapted from the USA group. At this age he then entered the local television competition called Jam Alley and took the first place position, this was to lead to future successes. This then followed the success of winning the South African Pop stars SABC 1 competition and was part of the winning group called Ghetto Lingo. Bjorn’s career as a performer includes: Shell Road to Fame contestant; Jam Alley Winner; recording Album (Southside) in Europe; performing in various Clubs in Europe; launching album to Royal family in Belgium; promoting Album in Europe; Coca Cola Pop star group winner; M-net Idols competition top 6; Barnyard Theatre show, Hot Chocolate; Barnyard theatre show, Glory Days and Tyrone Watkins Productions: Spotlight)
Lebo Toko (C.C. White) is an actor, singer and dancer born in Bloemfontein. He studied Lebo Toko (CC White) Lebo studied Musical Theatre at Tshwane University of Technology where he took part in productions such as Sweet Charity; I Love You, Your Perfect Now Change and had the opportunity of playing the character role of Coalhouse Walker Jr. in the South African premier of Ragtime the Musical. Since graduating from T.U.T he has done two Children’s Theatre productions under the baton of The People’s Theatre and Promusica Theatre. Touch My Blood marked his debut at the Market Theatre where he had the opportunity to play the role of Fred Khumalo. He has also showed in the Musical Review The Blues Brothers as a Bluet, and played Mushu the Dragon during the run of the Children’s Theatre Stage Musical Mulan Jnr. He recently completed the run of The Boy's in The Photograph directed By Janice Honeyman at the Joburg Theatre! and MAMMA MIA!
Shane "Duke" Wellington (Marty Madison) is an experienced television and radio personality with many talents. Voice Artist, Radio DJ, Television Host, Ring Announcer, and Film Actor are just a few of the hats he has worn in his career. In the early 90’s, Shane began co-producing music for artists like MarcAlex, Hugh Masekela, the Sarafina Girls and Brenda Fassie to name a few, and he produced several jingles for radio. Shane was chosen as a judge for the SA Music Awards for 4 years. Shane's accent and his boundless enthusiasm got him into radio, first doing voice-overs for companies like Coca Cola, Disney Pictures, and SAA, and then working for radio stations like Solid Gold and 5FM. Shane's on-air presence gained him thousands of loyal listeners. Radio then lead to television where Shane hosted, or appeared on shows for SABC1, SABC2, SABC3, and ETV. In between all this, Shane appeared in numerous television commercials including Jik, Nosh, and Shield. He has acted in three feature films including "Mr. Bones" (Leon Schuster), "Styxx" (Brian 'Cocktails' Brown, Peter 'Robocop' Wheller), and "Surviving Katrina". Shane is a natural MC, and the corporate industry has recognized his abilities. He has hosted numerous public promotions, conferences, award shows, and live events for several well-known companies including the financial services industry, and the auto industry. Shane is recognized as one of South Africa’s top ring announcers, and he has announced several National and World Title bouts. FIFA took note, and used Shane during 2006 World Cup Trophy Tour, as well as the opening ceremony for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup. With his passion for life and his determination to be the best, Shane "Duke" Wellington is creating an inspiring legacy.
Caroline Borole (alternate Effie White) was first bitten by the “stage bug” at the tender age of 14 when she entered her high school talent show and won the contest. After matriculating in 2001 she enrolled at Tshwane University of Technology where she studied musical Theatre for three years under the wonderful guidance of Vicki Karras. She performed throughout her tertiary career, acting and singing in shows such as Stage Door and as one of the leads in Pippin. After completing her tertiary education Caroline joined Richard Loring’s Girl Talk 005, her first professional performance. She then performed an array of shows for the Barnyard Theatre including the Motown Hot Chocolate, Walking in Memphis and Under African Skies, a first time endorsed “proudly south African” show which saw her touring all over Europe and Turkey with the show before coming back to do yet another successful run throughout the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Caroline has shown her worth as a skilled actress in local television productions including a two-year stint at Generations and she was a supporting actress for Nomzamo and worked on a comedy show called On the Couch for SABC 3. Caroline was in the top 10 of the South African idols 2007.
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