Opened: December 10, 2015
Book by: Marsha Norman
Music & Lyrics by Stephen Bray, Brenda Russell, & Allee Willis
Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Jennifer Hudson & Danielle Brooks
After watching the 1985 Steven Spielberg film based on the 1982 Alice Walker novel, I knew I had to see The Color Purple. It was one of the main reasons I took a trip to New York.
This production was an absolute powerhouse. With a very minimal set design, which really only featured chairs being moved around the stage, all the focus was on the performances. I knew Jennifer Hudson’s voice would blow me away and Danielle Brooks would command the stage, but I had no idea how heart-wrenchingly beautiful Cynthia Erivo’s performance as Celie would be. Her show stopping song “I’m Here,” earned her a standing ovation mid-show.
The audience was feeling every bit of this musical. Without a doubt, the best Broadway show I’ve ever seen.
Final say: Find a way to see it right now! ★★★★★