The Corona Diaries: Asmeret Ghebremichael

These recent times have been some of the hardest challenges we've faced and as a community, it hit us pretty hard. However during these difficult times, here at Pocket Size Theatre, we wanted to spread a little positivity and share some peoples experiences because we are all in this together. Each day we'll be speaking to our friends in the industry to share their experiences with you all so take a read and see how people are getting through these hard times.

Let's stick together, share the love and get through this as a community!

*Some information mentioned in this article may be out of date due to the progress of the current situation. Please keep that in mind when reading*

Asmeret Ghebremichael was most recently seen in the London company of Dreamgirls playing Lorell Robinson at the Savoy Theatre. Her other credits include Nabulungi in The Book of Mormon (Prince of Wales Theatre & Broadway); Nicki in Sweet Charity (Off-Broadway); The Wiz Live (NBC); Shawanda in Elf (Broadway); Pilar in Legally Blonde (Broadway); Understudy Lady of the Lake in Spamalot (Broadway); Ensemble in Wicked (Broadway); Cover Rusty in Footloose (Broadway); Nehebka in Aida (US Tour) and Cover Vanessa & Carla in In The Heights (Off-Broadway). 

On Monday 16th March 2020, The Society of London Theatre announced the closure of all Theatres in London. This followed suit with regional venues. Where were you when you found out and what was your initial reaction? 

I was In New York and on my first day of isolation. Broadway made their announcement a few days prior on the 12th, so I was not surprised by SOLT’s announcement. It definitely signalled to me that this was something to take very seriously. We theatre folk are tough, and if something is getting in the way of us performing, then attention must be paid. 

Can you tell us anything productive you’ve been doing? 

I’ve been writing quite a bit! It’s something that I don’t always dedicate enough time to when I’m busy, so having the time and space to create this way has been both rewarding and fun. In light of isolating, I’ve also had the opportunity to some fun virtual things like our Legally Blonde Live Reunion, and now I’m on Cameo. It’s been so much fun connecting with fans from all over the world. I’ve sung, answered questions, and just said hello and sent some love. I workout when it feels right, and I also appreciate the value of rest.

REVIEW: Dreamgirls at the Savoy Theatre

With the ever changing cast, Dreamgirls provides an ever changing energy. It’s hardly ever the same show. Whether this is a conscious effort of the actors and creative team or simply the fact that there is always a swing or cover on stage is unclear. 

However, the last two times seeing the show, including media night on Thursday, have been quite underwhelming. Until recently, if I was asked for recommendations for shows to see, Dreamgirls would be toward the top of the list. Now, it’s rarely given a thought. 

It has to be said, the low energy and wow factor actually comes from the ensemble in this show. Normally, the ensemble make the show great (as in previous cast), however, it all seems a bit too complacent and lazy.

FIRST LOOK: New cast of Dreamgirls join the show at the Savoy Theatre

American star Moya Angela joins the London cast of Dreamgirls as Effie White with Karen Mav and Marisha Wallace, who already star in the London production alongside original London Effie, Amber Riley. They alternate the role during the week. 

Asmeret Ghebremichael continues to play Lorrell Robinson, with Joe Aaron Reid continuing in the role of Curtis Taylor Jr, Brennyn Lark as Deena Jones, Tosh Wanogho-Maud as Jimmy Early, Durone Stokes as C.C. White, Delroy Brown as Marty and Kimmy Edwards as Michelle Morris.

The cast of Dreamgirls also includes Michael Afemaré, Callum Aylott, Georgia Bradshaw, Jabari Braham, Ashford Campbell, Sanchia Amber Clarke, Nicole Raquel Dennis, Nicole Deon, Rhiane Drummond, Ashlee Irish, Emma Louise Jones, Ashley Luke Lloyd, Samira Mighty, Jayde Nelson, Aston New, Sean Parkins, Kirk Patterson, Rohan Pinnock-Hamilton, Ryan Reid, Rohan Richards and Joshua Robinson.