For Chester Gregory II, being back on the Apollo Theater stage has been a true homecoming.

The budding Broadway sensation got his start as soul music legend Jackie Wilson in 'The Jackie Wilson Story' at the storied Harlem venue back in 2003, holding his own opposite the legendary Melba Moore. But today is a new day, and Gregory certainly has come full circle with his new role as James "Thunder" Early in the new production of 'Dreamgirls,' which hit the road this week, after a five week premiere engagement at the Apollo.

"The Apollo is where it began for me, in terms of a show and venue, that kick-started my career, and to return after being in several Broadway shows, I love being it," he reflected.

"At least I'm playing a human being now," he added, making light of two high proflie gigs -- where he played animals. "How about that?" Gregory deadpanned.

The Chicago-area native was tapped to play Donkey in the Broadway adaptation of 'Shrek' and had a run as Terk (an ape) in the Phil Collin-inspired musical, 'Tarzan,' a role praised by the New York Times as "the show's liveliest presence."

But as the veteran soul singer in 'Dreamgirls,' Gregory seems most comfortable -- and most lively -- with a role that is most beloved among black musical actors.

"Definitely the character is more James Brown-based, and with me having done Jackie Wilson, I incorporate that, as well and Little Richard and Otis Redding," Gregory, sharing his tools of the trade, said. "It feels natural having those moments in there and a little bit of Michael Jackson, too, who was getting his start when 'Dreamgirls' takes place."

His story of being cast in 'Dreamgirls' was a chance opportunity.

"This audition happened over a year ago," he revealed. "I actually came in on the wrong day. They were looking at the girls. I was a day early and the casting director saw me and said, 'Wait a minute, we will see you today.'"

After wowing 'Dreamgirls' director Robert Longbottom with his rendition of 'I Want You Baby,' one of his character's biggest numbers, the Gary, Ind., native was called back. By the week's end, he had an offer, making him the first first person cast in the new production of the legendary Broadway musical.

With the tour just getting underway, the single father of one (son) is energized to hit the road.

"I've been in New York about six years, and for me, this was a dream come true. And now, I'm looking forward to getting out to different cities," he gushed. "I want to see how each city will respond differently to various moments in the show."

"And I like to eat," he added. "I want to see where the food is."

"This version of 'Dreamgirls' is very important," he continued. "The original set designer Robert Wagner did things that had not been done on the stage, and he has now done that again with the five moving LED panels, which take us anywhere we need to be in a flash. I think that to come to live theater and experience it is a moment that can never be replaced again."

The singer-songwriter has been taking notes on how to improve his craft. "I've been blessed to work with ['Dreamgirls' songwriter] Henry Krieger, who was very much involved in our rehearsal process. It was great to see how he put together this masterpiece," he shared.

For Gregory, this new songwriting comes in the form of collaborating with Grammy Award-nominated producer Dot Da Genius, the man behind budding rap star Kid Cudi's debut. His new music project will be released sometime in the spring after the 'Dreamgirls' tour winds down.

Along the way, he wants to give back through benefit concerts in every city. Already, he's gearing up for an autism benefit in Seattle, and an AIDS benefit is planned for Los Angeles, with some of his 'Dreamgirls' cast members set to perform.

To find out details on Chester Gregory, head to twitter.com/ChesterGregory.