The COLOR PURPLE Vibrates with Golden Voices

The musical revival for The COLOR PURPLE is a surefire crowd pleaser based on Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize winning novel.  The play doesn't resonate with the poignancy of Walker's book or the movie which earned Oprah an Acad Award nom.  Oprah is one of the producers of the show.  The strength of this Tony winning show stems from the grammy winning composers/lyricists:  Brenda Russel, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray.  The musical styles span gospel, ballads, blues, jazz, ragtime & soul.  You also have to give it up for the sexual healing numbers.  The musical numbers are song by an exceptionally talented cast that makes every number a show stopper.  Heather Headley as Shug & Danielle Brooks as Sofia were magnificient in their leading roles.  The lead role of Celie was performed by understudy Adrianna Hicks whose voice was sublime.  The number "Mysterious Ways" song by the cast was similar in style to Alvin Ailey's masterpiece "Revelations."  The scant set never changed except for the chairs on stage constantly being moved.  The ramshackle backdrop held various, simple wooden chairs.  The heart of the story is the undying love between sisters.  The show is a joyous testament to love, strength and gratitude.  I recommend The COLOR PURPLE which is a lighter configuration of Walker's stirring novel for its first rate musical production.