1. A homage to The Supremes
Dreamgirls
A homage to The Supremes

2. Original 1981 Broadway Musical
Opened December 20, 1981, ran for 1,521 performances
Nominated for the 1982 Tony Awards for Best Musical and Score, and won for the Best Book of a Musical.
Inspired by the success and struggles of The Supremes
Character Deena inspired by Diana Ross.
Effie's departure from the group closely matches Florence Ballard, who was known to have a much more powerful voice than Diana Ross.
Curtis Taylor, Jr. represents Motown Founder Berry Gordy, Jr.
The success of the musical on Broadway inspired plans for a film immediately:
In the later 1980s, Whitney Houston was considered for the role of Deena.
Fell through when Houston insisted she get to sing some of Effie’s songs while playing the part of Deena.
In the 1990s, Lauryn Hill was also considered for the role of Deena.
The film was shelved again, until the later success of Chicago in 2002.

3. Dreamgirls

4. 2006 Film Beyonce, Jennifer Hudson, Eddie Murphy, Jamie Foxx
“Dreamgirls Unscripted” interview:
Beyonce considered this her first film as an actress
Film debut of Jennifer Hudson
Won Oscar for Best Supporting Actress