Date of Defense

4-13-2025

Date of Graduation

4-2025

Department

Theatre

First Advisor

Dwandra Lampkin

Second Advisor

Anthony Hamilton

Abstract

This thesis paper is a reflection of Aniya Thompson’s process playing the role of Effie White in the Western Michigan University School of Theatre and Dance production of Dreamgirls. The Dreamgirls’ book and lyrics are by Tom Eyen and music by Henry Krieger. This story is of a young Black female trio whose story brings light to the challenges of the music industry. As their fame grows, they face heartbreak, a shift in loyalty, and blatant exploitation while exploring themes of race, beauty standards and perseverance. Aniya reflects her artistic journey of stepping into Effie’s shoes emotionally, vocally, and physically while examining how the role shaped her growth as a performer and a young Black woman navigating her place in the world. This thesis discusses Aniya’s preparation process as she explored Effie’s transformation from an arrogant lead singer to a woman rediscovering her self-worth and compassion. Aniya uncovers Effie’s emotional arc and how she connected Effie’s struggles to her own experiences as a plus-size Black woman in a world that often undervalues those like her. Guided by her mentor and thesis advisor, Professor Dwandra N. Lampkin, who played Effie White at Western Michigan University in 1993, Aniya reflects on the pressure of audience expectations, personal doubts, and the responsibility of honoring an iconic role while making it uniquely her own.

Dreamgirls was performed in Shaw Theatre in the Gilmore Theatre Complex. This production opened on March 28th, 2025 and ran through April 13th, 2025. Rehearsals took place over approximately 8 weeks. The show was directed and choreographed by Anthony J. Hamilton and the production team included: Treasure Wallace (Asst. Director), Lauren Myers (Stage Manager), Ash Eddins and Trinity Gibson (Asst. Stage Managers), Matt Shabala (Music Director), Collin Wagner (Lighting Designer), Elena Hewett (Asst. Lighting Designer), Dave Nofsinger (Scenic Designer), Dani Holser (Asst. Scenic Designer), Kathryn Wagner (Costume Designer), Sammy McGuire (Asst. Costume Designer), Logan Reeves (Sound Designer), Karri Grillo and Lauren Dinkelmann (Asst. Sound Designers), Patrick Niemi (Technical Director), Garrylee McCormick (Hair Designer), Layni Chaisson (Hair Asst.), Noah Voss (Master Electrician), Lindsey Cook (Props Master), and Elizabeth Terrel (Intimacy Director).

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Open Access

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