Chicago Tribune - Recommended
"...First seen on Broadway in 1981, the justly beloved musical "Dreamgirls," which tells the fictionalized story of Diana Ross and the Supremes and is now in a spectacular new production at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora, was the model for a subsequent tsunami of theatrical biographies of musical stars."
Chicago Sun Times - Somewhat Recommended
"...Paramount Theatre Aurora's production of the 1981 musical by Henry Krieger (music) and Tom Eyen (book and lyrics) is memorable for its depiction of the calculated way the music industry takes a trio of naive teenagers and turns them into stars without much control over their careers."
Daily Herald - Highly Recommended
"...When it comes to "Dreamgirls," the way to measure a production's success -- in addition to the close harmonies and glittering costumes -- is the first-act finale. It takes place as The Dreamettes, a 1960s trio based on Motown's The Supremes, are preparing to make their Las Vegas debut at the same time their manager ousts founding member Effie White, who responds to her dismissal with the show's signature anthem, "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going," in which the displaced diva asserts her indomitable spirit in the wake of personal and professional betrayal."
Chicago Reader - Highly Recommended
"...My current enthusiasm for this show is all the greater because of the flawless, full-throttle revival I saw this weekend running at Aurora’s Paramount Theatre. There is not a slow minute or false step in this glorious production. Eyen and Krieger pack a lot of musical history into the show’s two and a half hours—which includes references to payola, cultural appropriation, the rise of rock ’n’ roll, the breaking up of showbiz segregation—and at times two or three plot lines are playing out in a single musical number."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Highly Recommended
"...DREAMGIRLS requires one star to be successful, and Paramount thankfully has Naima Alahkam in the leading role of Effie. From her first entrance to the final notes of her incredible series of solos, Alahkam delivers a performance that will shred your heart. Many would say that And I'm Telling You is the most important song in DREAMGIRLS. Alahkam starts out with a quiet freshness that makes you understand why Curtis lingers. But after he leaves, she burns down the house with excellent raging vocals."
Let's Play Theatrical Reviews - Recommended
"...Tom Eyen was the mastermind behind the book and lyrics of Dreamgirls, and the musical score was by Henry Krieger; the duo introduces us to a story that follows three girls from Chicago known as the "The Dreams" in their quest for fame. A story loosely based on The Supremes, Dreamgirls details the story of the 1960s girl groups that catapulted and changed American music. The sound of Motown was on the rise, with many groups and soloists looking for stardom with this startup record label."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"..."Dreamgirls" is more than just a story based on "The Supremes" and the rise of the musical world of "Motown". It is the story of dreams. There have always been young people who aspire to greatness whether by artistry or some other means. For many, the entertainment world is the perfect way to accomplish this. Every day we hear about the overnight success stories and if you have any talent, with the support of your family and friends, you feel the world is your oyster, just waiting for your grand entrance."
Chicago Theatre Review - Recommended
"...But this remarkable musical, like every good show, is truly the sum of all its parts. It’s a production filled with strong performances, a memorable score and fine artistry. “And I’m Telling You,” at all costs, to try to catch a ride on this soul train. You’ll be so glad you did!"
Chicagoland Musical Theatre - Highly Recommended
"...If you're looking for something less lowdown but not lacking for fireworks, Paramount's go at Dreamgirls is a sizzler."
Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended
"...Christopher Betts' direction (massively alive during the group numbers, powerfully focused during more private scenes) and Amy Hall Garner's energetic choreography (wait until you see the "brass section" in concert) make this musical a true delight to watch. Jeffrey D. Kmiec's set design (along with properties by Jesse Gaffney) is an unexpected combination of simple and pop-dramatic. Samantha C. Jones' colorful, glittery, and glamorous costumes work with Reuben D. Echoles' wigs and makeup to-at times-almost steal the show. And Christie Chiles Twillie's fifteen-piece orchestra leaves the theatre awash in dynamic, robust music. Indeed, all of the technical elements are spot-on, not that that is surprising in a Paramount show."
BroadwayWorld - Highly Recommended
"...The current production at Paramount Theatre in Aurora is the 1981 Tony winning musical Dreamgirls. Under the superb direction of Christopher D. Betts (not enough words to describe his direction) this musical jumps to life immediately and the audience is engaged for the rest of the night."
