By Katie Scarvey
kscarvey@salisburypost.com
Piedmont Players Theatre presents “Dreamgirls,” a show about a time in American musical history when what is called rhythm and blues blended with other styles of popular music creating a new American sound.
“Dreamgirls” is not just about the singing and the dancing and the performing, however. It’s also about the behind-the-scenes reality of the entertainment industry — the business part of show business that made possible this cultural phenomenon.
Director Reid Leonard points out that every few years, Piedmont Players does a show with an all-African-American cast, like “Sophisticated Ladies” or “The Wiz.”
If you’re an African-American performer, he says, “‘Dreamgirls’” is probably on your bucket list of shows to do.
The story, Leonard says, is loosely based on the history of the Supremes. The central plot point has to do with the character of Effie (played by Alexis Greer), the group’s star who becomes increasingly marginalized as the group becomes popular because she doesn’t have the right look.
Leonard notes that Tod Kubo of Charlotte is serving as choreographer. Before the movie “Dreamgirls” came out, Dreamworks put together a production of “Dreamgirls” in Los Angeles, and Kubo was the dance captain for that show — so he brings an impressive resume to Piedmont Players.
Show dates are Oct. 6-8 and 12-15 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 9 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults $15, $12 for students and seniors. The box office opens to the public Oct. 3.
The Meroney Theater is located at 213 S. Main St. Call 704-633-5471 for tickets or information.