"Dreamgirls" first rehearsal

A peek at the Milwaukee Rep's fall 2015 musical

As the Milwaukee Rep gears up for their 2015–2016 season, the people behind the scenes put out a call for local fans to be part of their social media club. I applied, made the cut, and the rest (as they don't really say) will be documented in full on my blog. I'm so thrilled for the chance to see and write about what I'm sure will be some outstanding Milwaukee theater. Last year I saw the Rep's Harvey and Peter and the Starcatcher and loved them both tremendously.

The new season at the Milwaukee Rep kicks off with the musical Dreamgirls. Musicals at the Rep are a relatively new tradition — just six seasons old. The last Rep musical I saw was Ragtime and it blew me away. In similar mind-blowing fashion, Dreamgirls promises high-power vocals, an affecting story, and (bonus!) lots of sequins.

To show off the company's talent and get the theater community buzzing about the fall production, the Rep hosted a rehearsal and reception at Mount Mary College. Members of the social media club were treated to reserved seats in the front row (I'm loving the perks of this new gig already). Along with about 500 Rep fanatics, we heard from the Dreamgirls director, costume designer, and other notable theater folks. Then we heard from the cast in two jaw-dropping songs, the best of which they saved for last: Nova Y. Payton's "And I Am Telling You" brought the crowd to their feet and mist to my eyes — a total visceral reaction to such an impassioned performance.

And this is only the first rehearsal?! Friends, you're not going to want to miss seeing this one. Dreamgirls runs from September 22nd to November 1st. Get your tickets now!