The version presently playing at The Marcus Center in downtown Milwaukee is the revised 2009 version. After the movie received Oscar nominations and Jennifer Hudson won the award for best supporting actress, the show has again piqued our interest, so a full house welcomed the dazzling production to Milwaukee’s fine arts center.

The set was fascinating with its combination of projected images, mirrors and revolving flats, creating a kaleidoscope effect at times. The costumes were deliciously flamboyant and distinctive. The dancing dramatic and well staged, but it was the singing that sold the show.

The bands in the orchestra pit and on stage accompanied some of the strongest solo singing imaginable, with Moya Angela and Chester Gregory doing the honors as Effie and James "Thunder" Early.

The musical showcases the dreams and broken hearts that often accompany one’s climb to fame: the disappointments, the jealousies, the infidelities and betrayals, the clashing egos, the self-serving aspirations of some agents who "use" their clients for their own ends and the compromises that are often made between the self and the demands of others.

It is a touching story, and the glamour and success that the public sees does not often truly reflect the personal lives of those who entertain us.

The show is quite satisfying and even breathtaking at times. It definitely has a hefty dose of glitz and drama and amazing talent. The only thing that prevents it from being truly awesome is there is little variety in the singing, and sometimes the lyrics are lost in the overwhelming volume of the voices. Since the story is predominantly told in song, one wants to hear the words. Understanding the gist of what’s happening is not enough to maximize our enjoyment.

Several numbers are especially well delivered - "Steppin to the Bad Side," "And I’m Telling you I’m Not Going," "One Night Only" and "Listen."

The show runs today through Sunday. There will be two performances each on Saturday and Sunday. Broadway shows that come to town usually offer eight shows starting on Tuesday and ending on Sunday. Call 414-273-7121 for times and tickets.