By Katrina “Kat” Reynold
THE COLOR PURPLE presented by The Carnegie through July 6. I attended the Opening Night performance.
The cast of THE COLOR PURPLE. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.
I do not usually enjoy when a story is turned into a musical during its stage adaptation process. When the beloved and incredible book by Alice Walker became one of those to “fall” to this trend, I rolled my eyes and called it a day. However, this reviewer will gladly eat her words and shout from the rooftops about the glory that is the musical The Color Purple. With book by Marsha Norman and Music and Lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray, this heart-breaking and triumphant tale is given a beautiful “new” life.
Hot off the success of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding with Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, Director Torie Wiggins gives us yet another impeccably directed production. With casting prowess beyond measure and her skillful way of knowing exactly how to tell a story with movement and organic scene changes, Ms. Wiggins is a queen our city can not lose anytime soon. In addition, Music Direction by Jason Alexander Holmes is worthy of a standing ovation. With strong harmonies and dissonant chords, Mr. Holmes adds the other important part of telling a story: the soundtrack.
Not to be overlooked, praise should also be given to Scenic Designer Tyler Gabbard, Costume Designer Maria F. Ortiz Lopez, and Wig & Hair Designer Tiara M. Jones whose talents enhanced the aesthetics of the stunningly executed piece.
And now: the cast. Truth be told, I was half-tempted to scan the program and simply say “They are all incredible – do not miss it.” The words “strong ensemble” do not do this band of performing artists justice. While there are certainly key players who should be mentioned, there is not one weak link in this cast. Bravx to each of them!
In the role of Mister, Kenneth Early brings a difficult yet important player to life with the exceptional professionalism we have come to know and love in him. One can only imagine the challenge of portraying such a flawed character, but Mr. Early is able to do it wholly with strong vocals and an energy which keeps you wanting more of him.
Elana (Elle) Elmore plays the infamous Shug Avery and she has zero trouble portraying the women with whom everyone seems to fall in love. Ms. Elmore slinks effortlessly across the stage, just oozing confidence and appeal, and delivers both belty tunes ad heartfelt ballads like it’s just another day at the office. What a role and what an artist!
In their professional debut (yes, you read that correctly) audiences are graced by the star power of Jordyn Jones as Celie. Mx. Jones possesses a wisdom beyond their years which they use to their advantage as Celie grows up before our very eyes. Their ability to make themself so small as Celie (physically, emotionally, and verbally) juxtaposed with the big emotions and equally big vocals is worth the price of admission alone. Mx. Jones is going places and we would all be lucky to be along for the ride.
Quick shout-outs to Brittany Hayes as Sofia (she’s a show stopper!) and to the trio of “church ladies”: Edin Kebede, Roniece Hutchins, and Fiona Capri (harmonies that will make your body tingle).
The time for stories for and about people of colour is always; however, it seems particularly significant now. The journeys depicted are not always pretty and sure aren’t always fair, but we are left with an uplifting sense of promise. Whether you are familiar with the characters of The Color Purple and their histories or you are a newbie to Alice Walker’s gorgeous saga, this show gets the infrequently given but always deserved “must-see” stamp of approval from me. You do not want to miss the caliber of acting, singing, and energy of this cast and creative team (plus a cathartic sob-fest never hurt anyone). I will encourage all who attend to forgo the eye makeup – it isn’t worth the effort.
Click here for more information about the production.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 