Jennifer Holliday, the celebrated Broadway star known for her portrayal of Effie White in the iconic musical “Dreamgirls,” is set to receive the prestigious Music Honoree award from the Boston Arts Academy Foundation (BAAF) in 2026. This honour will be celebrated at an event scheduled for 22nd October 2026, marking an important milestone in Holliday’s enduring career in the performing arts.
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Looking back on her formative years, Holliday vividly recalls the life-altering experience of being part of “Dreamgirls,” which premiered in 1981 when she was just 21 years old. This production was significant not only for its groundbreaking storytelling but also for Holliday’s emerging talent, as it was just her second professional stage performance. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, she reflected upon the evolution of her character during the show’s earlier workshops held in Boston.
Holliday explained how, initially, the musical’s storyline did not allow Effie to have a presence in the second act. However, as the workshops progressed, it was evident that audience reactions were overwhelmingly positive. She recounted, “When we first got to Boston, Effie’s big song, ‘And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going,’ was in the middle of the first act. But the people in Boston wouldn’t stop applauding.” This experience led to a major change, moving her show-stopping number to the end of the first act to capitalise on that enthusiasm.
The impact of this warm reception was profound for Holliday. She shared her initial apprehension about performing for predominantly white audiences, unsure of how her powerful voice would be received. “For them to receive me and not find my voice… too soulful or too loud… that really just gave me confidence and made me feel very loved for what I did,” she reflected.
As “Dreamgirls” gained momentum, Holliday found herself suddenly thrust into the spotlight. She candidly admitted that managing such success at a young age was daunting. In a moment of realisation spurred by a review from renowned critic Frank Rich, she saw herself in the company of legendary performers. “I had just turned 21 and had the responsibility of being a major Broadway star and carrying a show,” Holliday recalled, her disbelief palpable as she quoted Rich’s critique comparing her performance to the iconic Ethel Merman.
In 1982, Holliday’s powerful rendition of Effie earned her a Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical. This accolade was complemented by a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance, secured the following year for her unforgettable performance of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.” Holliday remained with “Dreamgirls” for nearly three years, leaving the show around the end of 1984.
Despite the accolades, Holliday reflected on the challenges of maintaining a personal life while managing the rigours of performing eight shows a week. “Broadway’s very hard with the eight shows a week… it made it a lot,” she said, hinting at the loneliness young performers might feel under such intensity.
The BAAF’s annual HONORS celebration, where Holliday will be recognised, aims to raise essential funds for the Boston Arts Academy, the only public high school in the city dedicated to visual and performing arts. This year’s theme, “Come Dream With Us: A Masquerade Ball,” will honour various leaders across diverse fields, giving it a celebratory atmosphere that resonates with Holliday’s own experiences in the arts.
Excited about receiving the honour and reflecting on her career journey, Holliday mentioned, “One of the greatest things is that I’ve been rediscovered, not only by new fans but some of my old fans who would just say, ‘Where have you been? What are you doing?’” This reinvigoration of interest adds to her enthusiasm as she embarks on what she refers to as “the third act of my life and my career.”
At 65, Holliday expresses a newfound openness to opportunities, stating, “I’m starting a whole new venture and I’m far more open and saying yes to a lot of things that I used to say no to.” This attitude signals a refreshing chapter in her life, filled with possibilities as she continues to make her mark on the world of performance.
The anticipation surrounding the BAAF HONORS event at the MGM Music Hall at Fenway is palpable, with tickets available in advance through the foundation’s website. Holliday’s journey from a young performer in Texas to a luminary of the Broadway stage serves as an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of the arts and the impact of community support.