Dreamgirls is making its long-awaited return to Broadway, and Jennifer Hudson is stepping in behind the scenes to help bring it back to life.
During a recent episode of The Jennifer Hudson Show, Hudson announced that she’s officially joined the creative team as a producer for the revival, which is set to premiere this fall. The EGOT winner shared that the new production aims to reintroduce the classic story to a fresh generation of theater fans.
“This fall, Dreamgirls is coming back to Broadway for the very first time since its open 45 years ago in 1981,” Hudson said. “Now, it’s being reimagined for a whole new generation, which I am so excited about. Now, I finally get to tell you that I am a producer on the team for the revival of this iconic musical! There’s going to be so much more to share in time, but I’ve been having so much fun working with this amazing team, and I cannot wait to share the incredible production this fall.”
The revival will be led by Tony-nominated director and choreographer Camille A. Brown, known for standout work on productions like Hell’s Kitchen and Gypsy. Casting choices and official opening dates are still under wraps.
Dreamgirls originally debuted on Broadway in 1981 at New York’s Imperial Theatre, where it enjoyed a nearly four-year run. The first cast featured Sheryl Lee Ralph, Loretta Devine, and Jennifer Holliday. Holliday’s unforgettable performance of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” became a defining moment in musical theater. The production racked up multiple Tony Awards, while its cast album also secured a Grammy.
The show didn’t stop there, expanding into national tours and international stages, including a celebrated West End run in London.
Hudson’s role in the revival feels especially meaningful. She famously played Effie White in the 2006 film version, earning an Academy Award for her breakout performance alongside Beyoncé, Jamie Foxx, and Eddie Murphy.
Now, almost 20 years later, Jennifer Hudson is helping usher Dreamgirls into its next era.
