“I think it pisses God off if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don’t notice it. People think pleasing God is all God cares about. But any fool living in the world can see it always trying to please us back.”
― Alice Walker, The Color Purple
Years ago I read (and loved) The Color Purple and saw (and loved) the movie, but sadly I was able to dredge up scant details of either prior to seeing the show. Shaky memory aside, I will never forget the performance of The Color Purple we saw last night on stage. If you have not yet had the opportunity to see it (with or without Jennifer Hudson)….GO!
There was some mind blowing talent gathered on that stage telling a complex story with a refreshingly simple backdrop. It was a treat to see Jennifer Hudson perfectly cast as Shug. Her regal stage presence was undeniable, but I also enjoyed seeing her easily slip into the ensemble and do her thing there. Cynthia Erivo as Miss Celie should win every award she is eligible for from now until eternity. I had to use all my self control to not hop on stage and give her and Danielle Brooks as Sophia a big giant hug at the end. Every single audience member popped out of their chairs for a sincere, enthusiastic, and well deserved standing ovation.
Tip: the closer you can get the better. We were in the front row – and if I could go back tonight and sit in the same seats I absolutely would. GO!!!
