The first time Nova Y. Payton played the role of Effie in “Dreamgirls,” she was nominated for Philadelphia’s 2006 Barrymore Award as the Best Lead Actress in a Musical. Now, she reprises that role in Signature Theatre’s lavish new production of the smash Broadway musical.

“The show itself is great to be in, but the best part is that I have a lot in common with Effie,” Payton said. “I’ve been in girl groups, learned about the music business and now have a son, as Effie did, so I know what it is to fight for my career in order to give him the best life possible.