The Color Purple

The Color Purple
Wednesday, July 12, 2006 8pm
Broadway Theatre, New York City

This show was so much better than I anticipated it would be. First of all, let me say, the story of The Color Purple is horrible. It's basically about this girl who is raped by her father at a young age. She has two children and they get taken away from her along with her sister. Her father then sends her off to get married and basically be a slave and raise this man's children and run his house. It's just heart-breaking.
The production is very well done. The sets, costumes, and talent is more than worthy of the Broadway stage.
I really loved the trio of women who sort of acted as narrators. They connected the story together and really added a great touch. They were also a nice release since the intensity of the show has the potential to overwhelm. They are extremely animated and add a lot to the show.
LaChanze takes the role that Whoopi Goldberg did in the movie version. She is absolutely extraordinary. I can't imagine doing that show every night. It's extremely impressive.
There is also a scene where they're envisioning what it's like in Africa. It turns out that LaChanze's character's sister was taken in by the minister and they've gone there as missionaries. She's reading her letters and the stage transforms. The dance that happens is absolutely beautiful. The dancers really give their all. It's awesome.
The best part is the ending. It's so triumphant. The whole place is just a wash of emotion and excitement. It's that great feeling of overcoming adversity. Having these insurmountable problems in front of you and finding a way to conquer them. It's very inspiring.
I have a feeling that this show is going to run for a very long time. You leave the theatre three feet off the ground.