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Beyonce Knowles in Talks to Star in Dreamgirls Film

By: Apr. 11, 2005
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 Written by Maya Cantu

Variety has reported that pop superstar Beyoncé Knowles is in negotiations to star in the upcoming film adaptation of Dreamgirls.

Producer Lawrence Mark and Bill Condon, who will direct and adapt the screenplay from Tom Eyen's book, reportedly met with Knowles for a screentest. Condon, who won a 1998 Best Screenplay Oscar for Gods and Monsters and was nominated for his 2002 Chicago screenplay, plans to begin filming in LA this fall. The Dreamgirls film is projected for a 2006 release, but no casting has been definitely announced.

Knowles is most likely in consideration for the role of Deena Jones, a back-up singer in a Supremes-esque girl group who becomes elevated to stardom after the dismissal of the heavier, less glamorous Effie White. The role is said to be loosely based upon Diana Ross.

Knowles herself has borne comparisons to the ex-Supremes diva. The voluptuous lead singer of the popular R&B group Destiny's Child, Knowles has branched out in recent years to pursue a wildly successful solo career. Returning to her roots, she is now touring with Destiny's Child. Film credits include The Fighting Temptations, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the upcoming remake of The Pink Panther.

Dreamgirls opened at the Imperial Theatre on December 20th, 1981. A smash hit, it ran for 1521 performances and won 8 of it 15 Tony nominations. The show featured a score by Henry Krieger and Tow Ewen, a book by Ewen, scenic design by Robin Wagner, costume design by Theoni V. Aldredge and lighting design by Tharon Musser. Dazzlingly staged by Michael Bennett, the show nonetheless lost the Best Musical Tony to Nine. Jennifer Holliday, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Loretta Devine were the three "Dreams" of the title, and Cleavant Derricks, Ben Harney and Obba Babatunde led a strong supporting cast. Dreamgirls was revived in 1987 with Lillias White, Alisa Gyse and Arnetia Walker. Heather Headley, Audra McDonald and White headlined the 2001 Actor's Benefit concert.


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