Exuberant, heartfelt ‘Purple’ scores musical triumph
“The Color Purple” at Playhouse on the Square is a rousing success on nearly every level.
Director Tony Horne’s inspired work on the regional premiere of the musical — evolved from Alice Walker’s book and Steven Spielberg’s film — has resulted in a spellbinding production that pulses with energy and talent.
The story chronicles the discoveries of Celie, who as a young teenager is resigned to the routine abuse from her stepfather. Whenever he impregnates her, he takes the infant away. Before long, the stepfather convinces “Mister” to marry her and use her as a housekeeper and punching bag.
Celie’s passive victimhood begins to change as she sees strong examples in friends, family and neighbors. Her regard for God, who had always been a confidant, is challenged and changes as she discovers her inner character.
Putting a lifetime of emotional trauma and revelation into a musical limits some of the most searing events revealed in Claire D. Kolheim (center) is splendid as Celie in Playhouse on the Square’s production of the musical “The Color Purple.”
book and film, and the stage version of “Purple” delves only superficially into some of those areas. But its heart is so good and the approach so exuberant that it’s no trouble to forgive the perfunctory moments.
What you’ll take away from this production is an appreciation of the staggeringly fine talent seen and heard at every level.
The cast is a mix of veterans of the Playhouse stage and newcomers — all of whom impress.
Claire D. Kolheim is splendid in portraying Celie’s transformations. Crystin Gilmore as Shug and Valerie Houston as Sofia are standouts. Jerry Rogers (Mister) and AJ Bernard (Harpo) are terrific as the men who realize the need to change. The rest of the cast is memorable as well, from the hilarious trio of church ladies to the ensemble.
Emma Crystal’s choreography is enthralling, powering the production with an ideal blend of balance and motion. The scenic design (Tim McMath) is sharp, the lighting (John Horan) inspired and the costumes (Rebecca Y. Powell) spot on. Renee Kemper’s music direction is masterful.
Horne has wrangled the various elements to bring a triumph to the Playhouse stage. Don’t miss it.