A decade after ‘Dreamgirls’ dominated at the box office, the legendary musical is heading back to the stage…this time with ‘Glee’ star Amber Riley.

The show, which first debuted in 1981 (and won six Tony Awards), is being given new life in London’s West End.

Full story below…

Riley has signed on to play soul singer Effie White in the production, which is inspired by the rise of 1960s R&B acts such as The Supremes. The role launched the mainstream careers of both Jennifer Holliday and Jennifer Hudson.

Speaking on nabbing the part, Riley gushed:

“I am so honoured and excited to not only be playing such an iconic role, but also to be working with Sonia Friedman and Casey Nicholaw. Working on the West End is now a dream realised, I just feel like this is going to be something special.”

‘Dreamgirls’ narrates the story of a female trio, from Chicago, Illinois, named The Dreams and features the original songs ‘And I Am Telling You’ and ‘I Am Changing.’

Of signing Riley, the show’s producer Sonia Friedman said in a statement:

“Having met Amber and having had the privilege of hearing her sing two of the iconic songs from Dreamgirls… I was left with goosebumps, tingles and tears; I was completely knocked out by this talented performer. London is very lucky to be the first to see her Effie.” {Source}

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Well slay then Ms. Riley!

There are so many ways to “win” these days and this is quite the touchdown. The West End, like Broadway, is where talent is validated, as such it’s an incredible look.

Watch Amber’s coincidental preview performance of ‘And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going’ below….

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