The Color Purple The Musical - A Vivid Tapestry of Emotion and Resilience

TheColorPurple Ensemble — (L-R) Juwon Tyrel Perry, Sean Blake, Ariya Hawkins, Eric A. Lewis, Curtis Bannister, Lachrisa Grandberry, Aalon Daeja Smith, Reneisha Jenkins, Sharriese Hamilton, Nicole Michelle Haskins, Gilbert Domally, Jos N. Banks and Daryn Whitney Harrell.

The Goodman Theatre in Chicago is currently home to a truly breathtaking production of “The Color Purple The Musical,” directed with profound sensitivity and flair by Lili-Anne Brown. Based on Alice Walker’s seminal novel and the subsequent Warner Bros./Amblin Entertainment film, this musical, with its soulful music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray, has been extended to captivate audiences until August 3, 2025.

At the heart of this production is Brittney Mack’s portrayal of Celie, a role she embodies with both vulnerability and towering strength. Her vocal performance is nothing short of masterful, each note resonating with the raw emotion of Celie’s journey from oppression to empowerment. Mack’s Celie is a beacon of resilience, and her performance is one that lingers long after the final curtain call.

Arie Williams brings a commendable depth to Shug Avery, infusing the character with a blend of charisma and complexity that is both alluring and poignant. The chemistry between Nicole Michelle Haskins as Sofia and Gilbert Domally as Harpo is electrifying. Their dynamic interplay provides not only moments of levity but also a powerful commentary on love and defiance.

(Center) Aerie Williams. (L-R, in back) Brittney Mack, Eric A. Lewis, Juwon Tyrel Perry, Shantel Renee Cribbs, Aalon Daeja Smith, Michael Earvin Martin, Jos N. Banks, Sharriese Hamilton and Ariya Hawkins.

Lili-Anne Brown’s direction shines in this production. Her decision to slow the pacing allows the narrative to breathe, giving the audience time to absorb the rich tapestry of emotions. The musical’s tempo ebbs and flows, painting a vibrant and colorful picture that highlights both the joyous and harrowing moments of Celie’s life. Brown masterfully balances humor and gravity, making the harsh realities of Celie’s world more accessible without diluting their impact.

(L-R, back row left) Reneisha Jenkins, Lachrisa Grandberry and Sharriese Hamilton. (L-R, front row left) Evan Tyrone Martin, Aerie Williams, Brittney Mack, Curtis Bannister and Eric A. Lewis. (Center) Nicole Michelle Haskins and Gilbert Domally. (L-R, back row right) Shantel Renee Cribbs, Aalon Daeja Smith and Michael Earvin Martin. (L-R, front row right) Jos N. Banks, Ariya Hawkins, Sean Blake and Daryn Whitney Harrell.

The ensemble cast delivers an all-encompassing energy that is infectious, drawing the audience into the heart of the story. Their dedication is palpable, and the standing ovations and emotional outbursts from the audience are testaments to the production’s profound impact.

The ColorPurple (L, front) Shantel Renee Cribbs. (L-R, center) Curtis Bannister, Sharriese Hamilton, Eric A. Lewis, Juwon Tyrel Perry, Sean Blake, Jos N. Banks, Aalon Daeja Smith, Lachrisa Grandberry, Daryn Whitney Harrell and Michael Earvin Martin. (R, front) Brittney Mack.

In conclusion, this rendition of “The Color Purple The Musical” is a spectacular triumph. It is a vivid, heartfelt exploration of themes that are as relevant today as they were when Walker’s novel was first published. This is a show not to be missed, a celebration of the human spirit that will leave you moved and inspired.