Bowie State University Presents Dreamgirls

Students Welcome Theatre Return After Two Years

 

MEDIA CONTACT: David Thompson, dlthompson@bowiestate.edu, 301-860-4311

(BOWIE, Md.) – Bowie State University’s theatre stage comes back to life this weekend after over two years of being silenced due to COVID-19 with a production of “Dreamgirls,” the story of three young Black women who changed the sound of R&B with their crossover music that dominated white pop charts in the 1960s. 

The musical drama is based on the formation and evolution of Motown Records and the Supremes, one of the most popular groups signed by the record label. Bowie State professor of  theatre and “Dreamgirls” co-director Elena Velasco says this performance will be very special.

“Our students have been on hold and very patient for two years and now they are ready to demonstrate their acting, singing, and dancing capabilities in a production that is familiar to everyone,” said Velasco. “Many people saw the musical on Broadway and the movie when it was released in 2006 which leaves little room for any surprises. What’s important for us is that our students perform well, gain valuable experience while honing their skills in the process.”

Effie, the lead role in Dreamgirls, is being played by Kayla Adams and Kaitlyn McGhee. Adams, a rising junior, has performed with the Childrens’ Theater of Annapolis; Cheverly Young Actors Guild; National Honors Choir; and the Duke Ellington Show Choir. “Effie White is a character I always wanted to portray because I can relate to her,” said Adams. “I love to be on stage and deal with the challenges that come with acting and singing.” 

Kaitlyn McGhee, a criminal justice major, is performing in her 4^th leading role and says Effie has a special meaning for her.  “Jennifer Hudson and Jennifer Holiday each made the role their own and that’s what I want to do while I’m on the stage,” said McGhee. After graduating from Bowie State, McGhee plans to attend law school and become an attorney.

Dreamgirls runs April 21 to 23, 2022, at 7:30 p.m. and April 22 to 23 at 2:30 p.m. at Bowie State University’s Fine & Performing Arts Center, Main Stage Theater, 14000 Jericho Park Road, Bowie, MD.  Tickets ($10) are available through Eventbrite.

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About Bowie State University
Bowie State University (BSU) is an important higher education access portal for qualified persons from diverse academic and socioeconomic backgrounds, seeking a high-quality and affordable public comprehensive university. The university places special emphasis on the science, technology, cybersecurity, teacher education, business, and nursing disciplines within the context of a liberal arts education. For more information about BSU, visit bowiestate.edu.