The Color Purple

The Color Purple

Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre

September 4, 2016

Photo courtesy of  The Color Purple

The Broadway revival of The Color Purple is a joyous celebration of the human spirit.  The vocal power of the magnificent cast erupts from the stage and energizes the theatre from the opening number and continues throughout the show.  Director John Doyle beautifully and seamlessly stages the action of the play on a unit set he designed himself.  The music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray evoke passion and empathy, and with book by Marsha Norman present clearly defined characters facing harsh challenges and brutal obstacles.

Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse as Celie.  Her character grows and flourishes over the forty year duration of the story.  Heather Headley is strong and fierce as Shug Avery.  Her presence is magnetic, and her voice and characterization are authentic.  Isaiah Johnson skillfully portrays the many layers of Mister from his abusive outrage to his redeemed unselfishness.  Danielle Brooks, as Sofia, and Kyle Scatliffe, as Harpo, capture your heart and make your soul soar.  The juxtaposition of Sophie’s “hell no” approach to life and Harpo’s naïve optimism grabs your attention, makes you laugh, then delivers startling truths.  These two characters have a prominent story line that twists and turns beneath the arc of Celie’s journey.  Ms. Brooks and Mr. Scatliffe make the most out of every moment they are on stage.

Danielle Brooks & Kyle Scatliffe
Photos courtesy of The Color Purple

Heather Headley & Cynthia Erivo
Photo courtesy of The Color Purple

The balance in the sound design was off during the performance I attended.  The volume was so loud that it was difficult to understand some of the dialogue.  This is a very surprising occurrence in a Broadway production, yet it did not take away from the powerful impact of the performance.  The ending will leave you peaceful and joyous.  Go see it! 

Domenick Danza