Despite expectations to the contrary, I generally don't like musicals and stay away from show tunes. But the American Musical Theater's production of "Dreamgirls" this past weekend made a fan out of me! Frenchie Davis (of I-got-kicked-off-American-Idol fame) starred as Effie, the heavyweight Dream with a big voice and a bigger attitude. While Frenchie was very good, I can only imagine what audiences must've felt while seeing a 21 year old Jennifer Holiday sing "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" during the original Broadway run 20+ years ago. The song brings chills even today.

Other artsy good things:
"Dirty Pretty Things" - LOVED it! Great ensemble cast, haunting glimpse behind the scenes of immigrant London.
Lizz Wright at Yoshi's - Sounded just like her CD. A stunningly beautiful voice. Sweet demeanor, like a big 14 year old. Wait, what did J have to say?