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! ★★★★★