Cynthia Erivo Will Make Broadway Debut Opposite Jennifer Hudson in THE COLOR PURPLE; Set to Open at Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre!

Producers Scott Sanders, Roy Furman, Oprah Winfrey, David Babani, Tom Siracusa just announced that CYNTHIA ERIVO, the breakout star of the Menier Chocolate Factory production of The Color Purple, will make her Broadway debut this fall when she reprises her acclaimed performance as Celie in John Doyle's critically heralded production. The Color Purple will begin preview performances on Monday, November 9th at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre (242 West 45th street) and will officially open on Thursday, December 3.

Ms. Erivo will make her Broadway debut opposite the previously announced Grammy, Academy Award, Golden Globe and BAFTA Award winner JENNIFER HUDSON, who is also making her Broadway debut in the role of Shug Avery. This production will mark Ms. Hudson's first musical theatre role since winning every major film award for her indelible performance in Dreamgirls.

"What John Doyle has done with The Color Purple is a revelation - he was able to maintain the show's epic sweep and sense of history while also ensuring that Celie's journey be an intimate, emotionally profound theatrical experience," said Producer Scott Sanders. "Celie is the heart of The Color Purple and Cynthia Erivo, an astonishingly talented young actress who will be making her Broadway debut, is thrilling in the role. She breaks the audience's heart and heals it by the show's finale, all while blowing the roof off the theatre with her remarkable voice. And having her joined onstage by an acclaimed actress and recording star like Jennifer Hudson - who will also be making her Broadway debut - all but guarantees some legendary musical theatre fireworks."

CYNTHIA ERIVO is appearing with the support of Actors' Equity Association. The Producers gratefully acknowledge Actors' Equity Association for its assistance of this production.

Group tickets are currently available for The Color Purple by calling 1-800-432-7780.