The Color Purple

Photo Credit Paul Kolnik

Prior to seeing this story portrayed as a play, I had already read the book and seen the film, so I was quite interested in what the visionaries of the stage production would do for this amazing story. They faced a daunting task, given the fact that both of the earlier versions were renowned and admired worldwide. Well, I am pleased to say that they not only succeeded but also surpassed any preconceived ideas I might have envisioned about the narrative. They have managed to bring to life the story of four amazing women; to make you feel their pain, joys and accomplishments through each of the acts.

I believe that good music creates the ambiance for a production and it was done magnificently. Any performance that begins the scene in a church setting, with powerful voices that resonate throughout the entire arena, allows you to begin to evolve with the characters and become a part of their lives.

The performances of the characters were all heartfelt and convincing. Celie’s transformation from unloved child to self-loved woman was indicated in the beginning with her being shy and meek, to being strong and determined in the end. Her voice was soft at the start, but as she gained self-confidence and worth, her words became powerful and the force of her voice reverberated as her strength was felt in the way that she sang her songs. In the end, we were all rooting for Celie, because she had finally come to the realization that we all knew, that once you loved yourself, the world is yours to conquer.

Sophia’s love of life and self may have led to a brief moment of misfortune, but the light was still burning inside and when she understood this, she was able to pull herself out of the darkness and become herself again.

Shug Avery loved life with no regards for the consequences of her actions. She too learned that living the free life has a cost, but she also knew that each day should be lived to the fullest, because tomorrow is never promised. That is why everyone loved her, she had a free spirit and they all wanted to be like her in some way.

Nettie loved her sister more than life, and she always believed in her heart that their love would conquer all. Their bond was unbreakable even though miles and years kept them apart.

The strength of these women all cumulated with everyone’s life merging at a family reunion picnic. All of the years of struggle and self-doubt, transcended in the realization that every life has a purpose and everyone has a right to be.

What was fascinating about the experience of this production was the community involvement that the supporting actors of the story were able to convey to the audience. All of the elements for a good production were there; the singing was soulful and mesmerizing. The acting was convincing, and the stage production, from the backdrop screen to the costumes, make up and set design, placed all of your senses within the story.

When a scene was beginning to unfold, you were able to understand and empathize with each person. Whether it was the unworthiness that Celie felt for herself, Mister’s self hatred of himself, Sophie’s unrelenting self determination, Harpo’s unbending love for Sophia, Shug Avery’s love of life, we could all see in ourselves some part of each of them that we could relate too. And when we were feeling the sorrow that each of them felt, the women of the church, would lighten the mood by singing about the irony of the consequences that can happen to each of us when life circumstances take unbelievable twists. This would help you in someway to escape the sadness that was being portrayed in the lives that were being revealed by the characters. We all like the gossips in our circle of friends as long as they are not spreading the word about you.

There are so many lessons in this performance that will make you reexamine your life and put into perspective your challenges. Each of these individuals had to face insurmountable odds, but in the end you realize, as did Celie, that you are somebody no matter what life challenges may come your way.

The Color Purple

Based on a novel written by Alice Walker, and the Warner Bros./Amblin Entertainment Motion Picture. Book by Marsha Norman. Music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray. Starring Jeannette Bayardelle (Celie), Felicia P Fields (Sofia) Michelle Williams (Shug Avery) and Latoya London (Nettie). With Rufus Bond (Mister), Stu James (Harpo), and Stephanie St. James (Squeak). Color Purple will be playing at the Cadillac Palace Theater in Chicago through September.
 

P.S. I have purchased the soundtrack, because the music is so great!

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