The Color Purple
A classic story throughout time with its 1982 novel by Alice Walker and 1985 film directed by Steven Spielberg, The Color Purple is just as important as a stage show than any of its other formats. While the original Broadway production in 2005 was nominated for 11 Tony Awards (winning one for LaChanze’s starring role as Celie), the 2015 revival was highly acclaimed winning Best Revival of a Musical and Best Actress in a Musical for Cynthia Erivo at the Tonys.
Pa (Kevyn Morrow) offers up Celie (Erivo) to marry the widowed Mister (Isiah Johnson) and she reluctantly leaves her sister Nettie (Joaquina Kalukango). Mister is abusive toward Celie and is thrilled when his old flame Shug Avery (Jennifer Hudson) comes into town. Celie develops feelings toward Shug as well who teaches her how to be her own woman.
The stage show touches on the LGBTQ+ themes more than the film did, which allows audiences to see the true effect Shug has on Celie. A film version of the musical is scheduled to be released in 2023.
