It was thrilling to experience the power of resilience and redemption in The Color Purple at The Carnegie in Covington, KY. Playing June 27 to July 6, the production was an unforgettable musical journey that celebrated the strength of the human spirit. Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker, this captivating musical tells the story of Celie, in a phenomenal debut performance by CCM student Jordyn Jones, an African American woman in the early 20th century, as she embarks on a remarkable journey of self-discovery. The musical was on Broadway 2005 to 2008, with Book by Martha Norman and Music and Lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray. It returned in 2016 and won the Tony for the Best Revival of a Musical.
The Story of The Color Purple
Celie’s humble beginnings happen during the post-slavery, Jim Crow era in rural Georgia. As Black Americans searched for their place in an evolving America, the weight of racism pressed on them like leeches, shaping how they interacted within their culture and community.
In Celie’s case, after she suffered the loss of her mother at an early age, she suffers constant abuse from a stepfather known as Pa (William Boatwright Jr.). He rapes her, which produces two offspring which he promptly sends away. She is eventually sold off along with a prized steer to another abusive man named Mister (Kenneth Early). Mister’s initial deal was to take Celie’s more favored sister, Nettie (Brandi La’Sherrill) as a wife, but Pa had other plans, forcing Mister to accept it. Still determined, Mister stalks Nettie, leading her to flee from Georgia and her beloved sister.
God is Always Part of Celie’s World
Under Mister’s command, Celie’s role as a housewife is simply that of a dutiful servant. She becomes responsible for tending the farm, the house, and whatever else he demands. Within this confinement, she forms her circle of family, friends, and acquaintances, which eventually leads to her rebellion.
Mister’s son, Harpo (Javon Cameron), is mainly a pawn for his father as he passively accepts Mister’s abusive ways and doesn’t speak out against them. Harpo finds his strength in his eventual wife, Sofia (Brittany Hayes), who is extremely outspoken and strong-willed—much to the chagrin of the community (but the delight of the audience). Sofia remains one of Celie’s first positive role models outside of her absent sister.
Celie’s second role model, who ironically influences her growth, is Mister’s true love, the singer Shug Avery (Elana (Elle) Elmore). Shug makes a grand entrance, turning Mister’s tough demeanor into instant vulnerability as she manipulates his harping for her benefit. Their relationship becomes complicated as Shug and Celie develop a deep, eventually intimate connection that further strengthens Celie’s defiance of the culture that has held her captive her entire life.
This Production
This cast, rounded out by a highly talented group of actors and singers, effectively impresses the audience with each musical number and emotional rollercoaster. They are able to make the audience laugh and move many patrons to tears.
This musical adaptation is rich in detail, creating a strong connection with the audience through honest, captivating performances from the leads and ensemble. The cast also includes: Edin Kebede, Roniece Hutchins, and Fiona Capri (the chorus of church ladies); Deondra Kamau Means; Kertu bell; Jathan Briscoe; Austin Hoard; Caira Fisher-Rogers; Nia Buchannon; Carter Minor; and Mary E. Patton.
Creative Team
The set (Tyler Gabbard) is surprisingly minimalist, featuring a simple half-porch and four illuminated poles that served as the backdrop for various scenes: from church gatherings, jook joint canoodling, troubled home life, and the town square. The beautiful lighting (Julie Cowger) supports Celie dreaming of a brighter future while watching a field of cosmos, or paying homage to the homeland with an ode to broader global ties. Costumes (Maria F. Ortiz Lopez) and Wigs (Tiara M. Jones) elevates the professionalism of the show.
With only a few props, such as chairs and clothing items, this production highlights the true star of the show—the dialogue and emotional connections. Solid directorial choices by Torie Wiggins. Solid musical direction by Jason Alexander Holmes.
Overall: The Color Purple is Unforgettable
The emotional heart of The Color Purple is Celie’s resilience in overcoming her oppressors, her journey toward redemption, and her eventual forgiveness, as they can break the cycle of generational abuse rooted in racism.
With a solid cast and soul-stirring blues, jazz, and gospel music, The Carnegie’s production of The Color Purple is a moving tribute to love, family, and the unwavering strength to fight injustice.
Next at the Carnegie
Coming up next at the Carnegie is Always…Patsy Cline (July 25 to August 3) and Grease (August 15 to 24). Get your tickets at the Carnegie online Box Office or by calling 859-957-1940.
