: When the story begins in 1962 Detroit, the main characters (Effie, Deena, and Lorrell) are portrayed as hopeful teenagers.
The central theme of the musical and film revolves around the transition from teenage innocence to the harsh realities of the professional music industry. The Teenage Foundation dreamgirls teens
: The characters navigate a music industry rife with racism, often seeing their songs stolen or "whitewashed" by white artists. : When the story begins in 1962 Detroit,
: The conflict of "image" vs. "voice"—why the industry pushed Deena to the front and sidelined Effie. the main characters (Effie