DREAMGIRLS
With special arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Wittmark LLC
Welcome to the New Tampa Performing Arts Center!
Please silence your cell phones.
This performance will have a 15 minute intermission.
Produced with the generous support of
Musical Numbers
ACT I
I’m Looking for Something, Baby - Stepp Sisters, Charlene, Joann, Marty, Curtis, Little Albert
and the TruTones,C.C. Effie, Deena, and Lorrell
Tiny Joe Dixon - Tiny Joe Dixon
Move - Effie, Deena, and Lorrell
Transition to Fake Your Way - Company
Fake Your Way to the Top - Jimmy, Effie, Deena, and Lorrell
Cadillac Car Aria - Curtis, C.C., Jimmy, Marty, and The Band
On the Road-Cadillac Car - C.C., Jimmy, Marty, Effie, Deena, Lorrell, and Ensemble
Movin’ Out/Recording Studio - Jimmy, Effie, Deena, Lorrell, and Ensemble
Cadillac Car-A La Pat Boone - Dave and the Sweethearts
Steppin’ to the Bad Side - Curtis, C.C., Jimmy, Wayne, Effie, Deena, Lorrell, and Ensemble
Party-Party - Curtis, C.C., Jimmy, Effie, Lorrell, and Ensemble
Baby-Baby - Jimmy, Effie, Deena, Lorrell, and Ensemble
Family - Jimmy, C.C., Curtis, Effie, Deena, and Lorrell
Show Biz Transition - Company
Dreamgirls - Deena, Effie, and Lorrell
Reporters - Deena, Effie, Lorrell, and Ensemble
Heavy - Curtis, Deena, Effie, and Lorrell
Walkin’ Down the Strip - Jimmy
It’s All Over - Curtis, C.C., Jimmy, Effie, Deena, Lorrell, and Michelle
I’m Not Going - Effie, Deena, Lorrell, Michelle, and Ensemble
ACT II
Opening Act Two - Jimmy, Deena, Lorrell, Michelle, Curtis, and Ensemble
I Am Changing - Effie
I Am Changing-Vogue - Curtis, C.C., Effie, Deena, Lorrell, Michelle, and Ensemble
You Are My Dream - Curtis and Deena
Ain’t No Party - Jimmy, Lorrell, and Tuxedos
I Meant You No Harm - Jimmy, C.C., Deena, Lorrell, and Michelle
Rap - Jimmy, Frank, Curtis, Lorrell, and Ensemble
I Miss You, Old Friend - Marty, C.C., Effie, and Les Styles
One Night Only - Effie and Women’s Ensemble
One Night Only-Disco - Curtis, Deena, Lorrell, Michelle, and Ensemble
Chicago - C.C., Marty, Mr. Morgan, Curtis, Effie, Deena, Lorrell, and Ensemble
Hard to Say Goodbye - Curtis, Deena, Lorrell, Michelle, and Effie
Leia Ambrister: Michelle Morris
Leia Ambrister is a vibrant and talented performer with a rich background in theatre arts. A graduate of Florinda Agricultural & Mechanical University, she holds a bachelor's degree in performing arts, reflecting her commitment and dedication to the world of stage performances.
From her early years in Miami, Florida, Leia exhibited a passion for the arts, beginning her dance journey at the tender age of 2. Her love for musical theatre blossomed at the age of 7, setting the stage for a remarkable career ahead. Leia's artistic journey has been marked by versatility, with notable roles in productions that showcase her range and talent.
Leia's repertoire includes standout performances as Little Inez in "Hairspray The Musical," Ronette in "Little Shop of Horrors," and the captivating role of Duppy in Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds." These diverse roles underscore Leia's ability to immerse herself in characters across different genres, captivating audiences with her dynamic stage presence and expressive performances.
In addition to her academic achievements and stage successes, Leia made a significant move to Tampa two years ago, further expanding her horizons in the world of theatre. At just 24 years old, Leia Ambrister continues to make waves in the performing arts scene, leaving an indelible mark with her talent, passion, and unwavering dedication to the craft. As she continues to evolve in her artistic journey, Leia's future in the world of theatre promises to be filled with creativity, innovation, and captivating performances.
VeBer: Ensemble-Stage Manager/Carl
Vette Berrian (VeBer) is a vet of the military and stage. This is her third NTP production. Although her last stint on their stage was "a few years ago in "Black Nativity", she has been actively working in several surrounding Tampa area theaters. She was last seen a few months ago in the Carlton Jones original "The Legend of Frankenstein Unleashed" as Victoria Sweet/Vickie S with Plant City Entertainment and last months "Charlie Brown Christmas" as Violet with The Missing Piece Theatre. Her crowning achievement was being cast as Velma in "CROWNS" at the Straz Center (Jaeb Theater) 2023 and 2024.
Thank you always to GOD first, my family and friends second and the theater community for all of the love, support and opportunities throughout my journey. I wouldn't be where I am without you. Luv,hugz and smoochez!!!
Yolanda Cabrera-Liggins: Marty Madison
Yolanda (Marty), a native of Tampa, Florida, is a graduate of Florida A & M University with a bachelor degree in Graphics Arts/ Communications.
She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Yolanda is an award winning Graphic Artist and Costume Designer.
She was the co-producer/editor and IT Specialist of the acclaimed feature film I NEED; I WANT.
Dreamgirls is her musical debut. Yolanda is married to fellow cast member Bill Liggins (MC, Jerry, and Atty. Morgan). Butterflies are her trademark.
"God bless my family and Dreamgirls cast members. It was truly a blessing to work with such outstanding talent."
Kieshia (Kyi) Clarke: Ensemble-Charlene/Dancer
Kyi Clarke is an African American Christian singer, actor, and model from Los Angeles, California and has been featured in many off-broadway productions, music videos, modeling shows, television shows, and movies. Today she is being featured as Charlene, a Dancer, and Ensemble Vocalist in the Dreamgirls Stage Play with the New Tampa Players. She recently finished “A Travel Through Time” Stage Play last year, where she was featured as Madam CJ Walker & Oprah Winfrey.
Caron Davis: Deena
Caron is excited to be participating in her first show with NTP and playing one of her dream roles as Deena. Caron has been in various productions around the Tampa Bay area and doesn't see any stopping in sight. For the last couple of years Caron has been involved with the singers group WCTG and maybe appeared a play here or there such as Girls Night Out as Lu (WCTG) and All My Sons (Plant City Entertainment) as Anne. Caron would like to dedicate her first leading role in a musical to her family and Aaron who's always supported her, WCTG group who has help grow her voice and confidence, and Mr. Leopold her amazing vocal coach.
Mike Dixon: Tiny Joe Dixon
Mike has a very diverse performing arts background. He has performed as a mime as well as a stand up comedian in New York City. He was cast as an extra in the motion picture Cradle Will Rock directed by Tim Robbins. Among the various acting roles, Mike was cast as John the Baptist in a local performance of Godspell. His stand out voice with blues raspy undertone has brought him to many stages to perform within the local community. This is his first time performing with New Tampa Players and he is excited to share the stage with such a talented cast and crew!
Alyson Gannon: Sweetheart
Alyson is elated to be back on stage with NTP after performing in their production of Grease. Some of her recent credits include Rizzo (Grease), Maggie (A Chorus Line), Elle Woods (Legally Blonde), and Wendla Bergman (Spring Awakening). She would like to thank her mom, dad, brother, sisters and Mason for all their support. Shout out to the Dream Girls creative team and cast for all their hard work! Xo.
Javen Jackson: C.C. White
Growing up in a small town from a big family gave him character and a vision. Javen, a former Division 1 track athlete now, songwriter, artist, and performer from Pensacola, FL stars in his debut acting performance.
Arlene Jacobs: Stage Manager
Arlene Jacobs has been working in the theater industry around the Tampa Bay area for over 15 years; with numerous companies including The Straz Center, Saint Pete Opera Company, Powerstories Theater, Carrollwood Players, Spanish Lyric Theatre, The Tampa Fringe Festival, and others. Though she has been on stage, she prefers to direct the spotlight rather than be in it! Her main passion is Stage Management, though she has been known to take the director’s chair from time to time. She is thrilled to be a part of New Tampa Players, Dreamgirls, helping to make the Dream Happen.
Julio (Angel) Larrieux: Wayne/Security Guard
My name is Julio Angel Larrieux, I am a Puertorican decent. I'm currently in the middle of a film project, my role is Det. Cruz & previous I participated in a theater play called 'Single Black Female in the Navy (SBFN)', my role was a Security Officer. I am a Songwriter & music producer (well, I was. haven't toucheda studio in 10+ years). My goal is to be better at everything I do, whether is loving, acting, singing or producing (in any way; musically or in the film industry).
Bill Liggins: M.C. Earl/Jerry Norman/Mr. Morgan.
Bill Liggins is the award winning Director/Writer/Producer of the acclaimed feature film I NEED; I WANT. He is also a published novelist with six books on the market. As a stage actor, Bill has appeared in THE ME NOBODY KNOWS (Clorox), THE MEMBER OF THE WEDDING (Honey), and A SOLDIER'S PLAY (Corp. Cobb). As a child, Bill was member of the Karamu Youth Theater Program in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. A graduate of Cleveland State University in Geology and Communications, Bill was also a TV Sportscaster in the Cleveland and New York markets. He's married to Yolanda Cabrera-Liggins who is part of the DREAMGIRLS cast as well.
NaTasha McKenzie: Effie White
After taking a small break from theater to fulfill her dream in recording her original music, NaTasha released her debut single “Fool 4 You” followed by “Over” and “ I Don’t Want Another Christmas Without You.” NaTasha is thrilled to be returning to NTP for her role as Effie White in their production of Dreamgirls. NaTasha was recently seen in The Straz production of Crowns as Mother Shaw, as well as The Straz “Arts Legacy” adaptation of Ntozake Shange’s For Colored Girls Who Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf where she played The Lady in Yellow. Other recent roles: The Princess Who Kissed the Frog in Disenchanted! with mad Theatre and Gail in New Tampa Players’s production of Akeelah and the Bee. NaTasha feels everyone has a gift as well as a purpose and she is blessed to be able to use hers to give back through performing. Outside of being active in the theater community, she mentors and tutors teens in her community. She lives to uplift people's souls so that they enjoy celebrating and living life. NaTasha is thankful for her daughter McKenzie, her family and friends for their love, support and unceasing prayers.
Christian McLaurine: James “Jimmy” Early
Christan McLaurine is a native of Nashville, Tennessee and has enjoyed the the last three years here in Tampa. Christan works for the City of Tampa in their Creative Arts Theatre department, where they bring theatre productions to young audiences in schools, libraries and community centers throughout the city. He has worn many theatrical hats including Performer, Director, Choreographer, Designer and Stage Management. Some of his favorite theatre moments include: being a traveling teaching artist for The Rev (Auburn, NY) and New Stage Theatre (Jackson, MS), In The Heights (Ovations Dance Academy-Tampa, FL), Madagascar- The Musical (New Stage-Jackson, MS), Our Town (New Stage- Jackson, MS), HEATHERS: The Musical (Street Theatre-Nashville, TN), Once on This Island jr. (Director/Choreographer/Hattiloo-Memphis, TN)
Stephon Mikell Jr.: Little Albert
Stephon is a 30-year-old engineer raised in Bartow, FL, and a proud alum of Cornell College, where he studied Biochemistry and Computer Science and graduated in 2015. His favorite performance credits are as Hugo in Bye Bye Birdie and Schroeder in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Stephon is excited to make his Tampa theatre debut with NTP as part of a long time favorite production like Dreamgirls. Beyond the stage, he harmonizes with Opera Tampa and dazzles dance floors across the nation as a competitive swing dancer. Many thanks for everyone supporting NTP and the arts!
Joseph Moore III: Frank
Meet the multi-talented and aspiring young actor, Joseph Moore, a 16-year-old with a passion for the arts. This is Joseph’s first show with the New Tampa Players and the second time working with Director Clay Christopher.
With an impressive list of roles under his belt, Joseph has showcased his versatility on stage. From portraying the charming Rudolpho in "Matilda the Musical" for The Community School of the Arts and Corbett Prep to bringing the character of Drake to life in "Annie the Musical" for The Carrollwood Day School Community Theatre and Patriot Playhouse, Joseph has proven his ability to inhabit diverse roles with flair and precision.
Beyond the theater, Joseph has graced the runway as a model in Tampa Bay Fashion Week, adding a touch of style to the world of fashion. His collaboration with Dorthy Zudora as a fashion and photo model reflects his passion for both the performing arts and visual storytelling.
He is an active member of the Sunlake HS Drama Club and serving as the President of the Class Source Drama Club. Looking ahead, Joseph is poised to continue his journey as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
Jamyra Rainey: Ensemble
Jamyra Rainey is 24 years old and this is her first ever performance in a musical production. Being a performer has been her dream since she was a child and she is very excited to be a part of this amazingly talented group. This may be the first time you hear her name but she promises it won’t be the last. Enjoy the show!
Monai Saberille: Edna Burke/Photographer/Executive/Ensemble
Monai Saberille is a creative fluent in expressing her views through multiple mediums. Ms. Monai has most recently been seen in the role of Princess Peiya in Amazing Grace, The Broadway Musical (The Citrus Alliance for the Arts). She is also a fashion artist who has shown her footwear line in New York Fashion Week. This budding actress is a St. Petersburg, FL native who has worked behind the scenes as a coordinating and associate producer on various projects for television, radio, film and live events. Monai Saberille holds and MBA and has attended Florida A&M University, is a graduate of John Casablancas Centers, CSB Media Arts Centers and the University of Phoenix. She continues to hone her craft by working as talent and crew member on various Independent productions (DREAMMAKERZ Productions). Monai is passionate about encouraging everyone to dream bigger! Don't fertilize your grave with all of your potential. Instead, see your dreams through to fruition and share them with those you love!
PaVonné Scott: Joanne/Reporter
Pavonné Scott is actively involved in the community. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority) and Co Owner of The Burgess / Scott School of the Arts ( teaching voice, guitar, piano and drums) - ( B.A Music Education from Bethune - Cookman University ) , hip hop dance instructor, teacher /educator for 18 years in Hillsborough County. Pavonne has performed with Mind Body and Soul productions as Shante in the gospel play 'She is not who I thought, She is my Mother,First Baptist Church of College Hill at the Straz Center -The Christmas Post where she played the lead Alice, Aunt Em and Glinda the Good Witch in The Wiz with New Tampa Players, Levis wife in Joseph and The Coat of Many Colors with Spanish Lyric Theatre, and Sister Hubert in all series of Nunsense with MAS Theater. PaVonné says "There are many stars in the galaxy" and she is one that will shine the brightest.
Patty Smithey: Lorrell
Patty is beyond excited to be performing with New Tampa Players again! Dreamgirls is a show that Patty has loved for a long time, and she couldn’t be more proud to be a part of this wonderful cast. Patty wants to thank everyone for coming to support her and her Dreamgirls family.
Eric Erte Stillings: Curtis Tyler Jr.
Actor Singer, Dancer, Choreographer, Fashion Designer Artistic Director of Tampa’s Finest Stars performing Arts Group Walt Disney World Tencennial Birthday Party Dancer and Parade, Walt Disney World Kids of the Kingdom, Epcot Center original World Dancers African, Caribbean, American. Graduated from Hillsbourgh Community College AA, The University of South Florida. Bachelor of Theatre Arts, B. S. Outstanding Parade Performer Disney, Academia awards 6.
Jake Veit: Ensemble
This is Jake’s third show with New Tampa Players. After participating in their previous shows like Grease (Doody) and Shrek: The Musical (Ensemble), he was excited to be invited back to perform in Dreamgirls! He also wants to thank God, his family, his friends, and Kyndall for their unending support.
Genesis Wiley: Ensemble
Genesis is thrilled to be a part of the Dreamgirls cast! Genesis has been in many productions including Carrollwood player's A Christmas Carol As Lady 2, and Hillsborough Community College productions including Auto-Da-Fé as Mme. Duvenet, Zombie Beach the musical as ensemble.
She wants to thank her friends and family for supporting her dreams.
G. Frank Meekins: Conductor/Piano
Originally from Boston, Frank moved to Tampa in 1998 and since that time has worked with many local high school and community theatre groups throughout the greater Tampa Bay area. He musically directed NTP’s first production, They’re Playing Our Song, in addition to A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Music Man, Camelot, Annie, Pippin, She Loves Me, Beauty and the Beast, Addams Family, Legally Blonde, Annie, and Little Mermaid, He directed and musically directed NTP’s productions of A Grand Night for Singing – Rodgers and Hammerstein Musical Revue, The Sound of Music, You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown, Mary Poppins, Into The Woods, Quilt, Snapshots, and Snoopy. Recently, he directed NTP’s 2021 production of The Laramie Project: 10 Years Later. Involved in all aspects of musical theatre from set design and construction to lighting design and execution, from stage management to directing and musically directing, Frank has participated in over 375 productions throughout New England and Tampa Bay including A Chorus Line, Les Miserables, Chicago, Urinetown, Honk, Mame, Hello Dolly, Jesus Christ Superstar, Oklahoma, Annie Get Your Gun, The Boyfriend, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, All Shook Up, Perfectly Frank, Anything Goes, Caba-ret, Gypsy, Tommy, La Cage aux Folles, Rag-time, Little Shop of Horrors, Baby, Damn Yankees, Fiddler on the Roof, Godspell, Into the Woods, I Do – I Do, Jane Eyre, A Little Night Music, West Side Story, Evita, Where’s Charley, The Wizard of Oz, Peter Pan, Once Upon a Mat-tress, Carousel, Big River, Footloose, Pirates of Penzance, South Pacific, Whoopee, Bells are Ring-ing, Brigadoon, Bye Bye Birdie, Cabaret, Nun-sense, My Fair Lady, Oliver, No No Nanette, Sweet Charity, Brigadoon, The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Legally Blonde as well as the operas Carmen, Turandot, and Die Fledermaus. Frank often participates in various events with the Florida State Thespians. He would like to thank his spouse of 24 years, Tim Huff, for all his support.
Eboni Graham: Choreographer
Eboni is a choreographer, director and actress. She has worked in various theatre and film productions throughout the years. She first worked with New Tampa Players as a choreographer for their December 2021 production of Black Nativity. Eboni recently finished a competition and touring show that was in the Tampa Bay Theatre Festival called Single Black Female in the Navy. Eboni tremendously appreciates the opportunity of helping bring to life the choreography in Dreamgirls with the catchy and memorable sounds that every Dreamgirls lover can’t get out of their head and new patrons will come to love. Eboni thanks her mother for her many years of support and professional advice. Eboni honors her grandmother in this production for introducing her love of dance and the music in this era to the family. May she rest in peace.
Clay Christopher: Director
This will be Clay’s fourth time directing a musical and the second time doing so for NTP. The first being She Loves Me. Clay is a 2009 graduate of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA LA). Since then, Clay has found success as an actor and director, his first professional work was playing Dr. Facilier at Disneyland in “Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee”. Clay has also starred in the 2012 horror/comedy, “The Complex” and can most recently be seen in “The Last Amityville Movie (2023)”. Clay also worked as a Cruise Director for Norwegian Cruise Line, taking advantage of traveling the world and meeting exciting people! Clay can be seen this Summer in “The Rocky Horror Show” in the role of Dr. Frank n’ Furter for Jobsite Theater! Thank you to this amazing cast and crew, it’s been a pleasure!
You are my dream!
A Note from the Director
Director's Note:
In 1981, Broadway and the world was taken by storm by a show that centered around many of the musicians and singing groups of Motown. That show would define a new era of musical theatre that not only included African Americans but put them at the forefront of the action! Dreamgirls is so much more than a Broadway musical, it’s become an institution in and of itself. It’s a show that directors and actors clamor for a chance to approach and bring to life. New Tampa Players has created the ability and space to bring this incredible piece of art to the community and it has been handled with passion, respect, love and gratitude! Directing Dreamgirls has used most of the knowledge I’ve amassed in my professional career and has put me in such a state of gratitude for the great fortune I’ve had working with these amazing performers you are about to witness. Please sit back, relax, open your hearts and get ready to behold and experience, Dreamgirls!
-Clay Christopher
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