Dreamgirls: Apollo Opening Broadway Night Video

By Christopher Moore, Broadway Magazine

One of the most beloved musicals of modern times launched its national tour with a Broadway opening night at the historic Apollo Theatre in Harlem. The musical Dreamgirls has earned Tony Awards and Academy Award acclaim as well. The newest revival of Dreamgirls celebrated, and Broadway.tv and Broadway Magazine were there to celebrate with them.

"It is amazing. When you talk about art imitating life, how much more perfect does it get than having Dreamgirls is going to be debuting here – at the Apollo–for yet another national tour," observes artist Sheryl Lee Ralph.

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"I'm really excited about it," says Broadway vet turned Extra host Mario Lopez adding, "I've never had a chance to see it (Dreamgirls), and I've never been to the Apollo Theatre either, so this is very authentic. I think it lends itself to an even better experience."

"We're in the 75th Anniversary," offers Apollo Theatre President and CEO Jonelle Procope, "This is our first foray into musical theatre."

"Very excited, first to be in the Apollo Theatre," shares famed fashion designer Carolina Herrera, "and I came to see Dreamgirls because my friend William Ivey Long created all the costumes." Tony Award winner William Ivey Long is a legend in his own right, and his work for this production has earned praise from critics as well. With the creation of over 56o costumes for this production of Dreamgirls, he deserves an award for designer stamina as well.

"It's the force at work, really," smiles Star Wars star Anthony Daniels, explaining how he is in New York City touring with Star Wars In Concert, and that his one night off coincided with the opening night. Mr. Daniels portrayed CP3O in the Star Wars films, and so added yet another celestial dimension to the star-filled evening.

"I think its amazing. The whole atmosphere up here is perfect for the show," says legendary comedienne Joan Rivers on the opening night in Harlem earnestly. Ms. Rivers was pleased to be at the red carpet event. "I just came from the Porn Awards," she added with a laugh, "they have a red carpet, but it's shaved."

Watch the entire video feature of Dreamgirls opening night, and catch the tour at a city near you as the Dreamgirls live on right here on www.Broadway.tv.