**Jennifer Hudson to Produce First Broadway Revival of Dreamgirls**
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Jennifer Hudson, the Oscar-winning actress and musician, is set to produce the inaugural Broadway revival of the iconic musical Dreamgirls. Hudson, who first gained acclaim for her portrayal of Effie White in the 2006 film adaptation, announced her involvement in the project on February 11, 2023, with the revival slated to open in the autumn of 2026.
The 44-year-old star, who has achieved the prestigious EGOT status, expressed her excitement about revisiting Dreamgirls from a new perspective. Reflecting on her role as a producer, Hudson stated that the opportunity feels like “reliving” her original experiences but in a transformed capacity. She aims to introduce the Tony-award-winning musical to fresh audiences while nurturing a new generation akin to the Dreamettes, the famed girl group featured in the production.
In her conversation with PEOPLE, Hudson highlighted her commitment to the revival by saying, “That’s a huge reason why I wanted to be a part of it, because it’s so life-changing.” She is eager to witness how the new characters, particularly the actors stepping into the roles of Effie, Deena, and Lorrell, will evolve through their experiences in the show.
Hudson’s journey began with her Oscar win for Best Supporting Actress, a monumental moment that cemented her place in Hollywood. In the upcoming production, she will not only be a producer but also a guiding figure for the new cast members who will take on the roles she previously inhabited alongside Beyoncé and Anika Noni Rose.
When asked about the qualities needed for the actress portraying Effie, Hudson explained, “Definitely to just have a presence out of this world like Effie does, that voice of course. Then that spark that Effie has, that presence.” She believes that Dreamgirls has the power to create stars and is keenly looking forward to discovering the actor who embodies the essence of Effie.
Though the revival is poised to attract a new generation of fans, Hudson contends that it will also offer something unique to those familiar with the original material. She remarked on the significance of returning Dreamgirls to Broadway, noting, “Thinking of when it debuted in 1981, to return it back to Broadway so the new generations know where it originated from is essential.”
Hudson feels that it’s an opportunity for both new audiences and long-time fans to engage with the production in a fresh light. She said, “To be able to just experience it in a different way, I think it creates a whole new experience. I’m excited.”
The announcement of her involvement in the revival was made during an episode of The Jennifer Hudson Show, which has recently been renewed for a fifth season. In a heartfelt statement, Hudson recalled how her life transformed significantly due to her role in the 2006 film. “Twenty years ago, my life changed forever because of a film called Dreamgirls,” she remarked, alluding to the profound impact the project has had on her career.
Hudson further expressed her honour in joining the producing team for the revival, which will be directed and choreographed by the visionary Camille A. Brown. She concluded, “I am beyond honoured to help bring Dreamgirls back to the stage… This fall cannot come soon enough.”
As Hudson embarks on this new chapter in her artistic career, she also takes time to impart wisdom to her 16-year-old son, David Daniel Otunga Jr., concerning financial literacy. Seeking to prepare him better than she felt prepared, she emphasised teaching her son about the importance of credit and responsible financial management.
Using the Cards on the Table game in partnership with Credit One Bank, Hudson is excited to engage her son in financial discussions. “I want him to understand how important it is to try to create good credit… Our credit is our grade in our adulthood,” she reflected.
With Hudson at the helm of this revival, anticipation for the new Dreamgirls on Broadway is already building, promising a blend of nostalgia and fresh talent that has the potential to leave audiences thoroughly captivated.