Amber Riley has pneumonia but will return to Dreamgirls soon

Producers have released a statement this afternoon about the recent bout of illness taking over the cast of Dreamgirls.

In a tweet it was confirmed that Amber Riley, who has been off for several performances over the festive period, has been diagnosed with pneumonia, along with other members of the cast.

Audiences have missed out on seeing Riley while she recovers. Instead, Broadway star Marisha Wallace has been flown over to the UK to take on the role alongside alternate Effie Karen Mav.

Wallace has performed as Effie White in the US and was part of the cast of Something Rotten on Broadway.

The statement read that Riley was in the final stages of recovery and is expected to return in the next few days.

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In December several shows were cancelled due to cast illness, with ticket holders being advised to contact their point of sale for refunds.

Riley is scheduled to perform 7 out of 8 performances per week, although producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist.

Dreamgirls is currently booking at the Savoy Theatre until 6 May.

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