Based on the novel by Alice Walker and the Warner Brothers/Amblin Entertainment film
A teenager gives birth to two of her father's children and then is married off to a man who sought her sister. The man convinces the sisters' father to separate the two and makes sure they never communicate more...
Fantasia Barrino, who won the third season of American Idol and achieved tremendous success with her debut single "I Believe," starred as Celie in the Broadway production of The Color Purple, showcasing her powerful voice and emotional depth in this iconic role. more...
Jeannette I. Bayardelle, whose divine voice has been celebrated worldwide, starred as Celie in the Broadway production of "The Color Purple" and later originated the role in the First National tour, sharing the stage with notable performers such as Michelle Williams from Destiny's Child and Latoya London from American Idol. more...
Darlesia Cearcy, who played Nettie in the past Broadway revival of The Color Purple, has an impressive theater background, including roles in Once on This Island and Ragtime, as well as television appearances on shows like "House of Cards" and "FBI." more...
(Swing)
Darius Crenshaw, a recipient of the Mae L. Wien Award from the School of American Ballet, has showcased his diverse talents in The Color Purple on Broadway and its 1st National Touring company. more...
(Understudy)
(Swing)
(Swing)
Guy A. Fortt, a seasoned SAG-AFTRA-AEA actor known for his unique storytelling abilities, showcased his talents on Broadway in Oprah Winfrey’s The Color Purple. more...
(Understudy)
Gavin Gregory, who previously served as the understudy for Harpo, Buster, and the African Chief in the Broadway production of The Color Purple, has an impressive career spanning Broadway, national tours, regional theater, TV, and film. more...
(Understudy)
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(Alternate)
Chaka Khan, renowned for her powerful voice and numerous accolades, captivated audiences with her portrayal of Sofia in Broadway's adaptation of "The Color Purple" in 2008. more...
Zonya Love, who starred as Celie in the Broadway production of The Color Purple, has an impressive array of credits including performances in Avenue Q and Dreamgirls, and was recently seen in Todd Solondz's play Emma and Max at The Flea Theater in New York City. more...
Larry Marshall, a seasoned actor with nominations for Helen Hayes and Jeff Awards, has an impressive Broadway resume, including a Tony and Drama Desk-nominated role in Porgy and Bess, and a Grammy win for his portrayal of Sportin' Life. more...
(Understudy)
(Swing)
Teresa Stanley, who has graced the stage in acclaimed productions such as Purlie, Into The Woods, Ain't Misbehavin', and Dreamgirls, also brought her talent to Broadway in The Color Purple. more...
Alton Fitzgerald White, known for his powerful portrayal of Mister in Oprah Winfrey’s The Color Purple opposite Fantasia Barrino, balanced this role while simultaneously performing as Mufasa in The Lion King, showcasing his incredible versatility and dedication to the craft. more...
NaTasha Yvette Williams, who previously captivated audiences as Sofia in The Color Purple, has an impressive Broadway resume including roles in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Waitress, and Chicago. more...
Yolanda Wyns, known for her powerful voice and engaging personality, captivated audiences as one of the three Church Ladies and understudy for Sofia in Broadway's past production of The Color Purple. more...
Awards and Nominations
2006 Outer Critics Circle Awards
Outstanding Actress in a Musical: La Chanze was nominated but did not win.
Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical: Elisabeth Withers-Mendes was nominated but did not win.
2006 Tony Awards
Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical: Brandon Victor Dixon was nominated but did not win.
Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical: Felicia P. Fields was nominated but did not win.
Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical: Elisabeth Withers-Mendes was nominated but did not win.
Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical: LaChanze won.
Production Team
Jonathan Tunick Orchestrator
Angelina Avallone Make-Up Designer
John Lee Beatty Scenic Designer
Donald Byrd Choreographer
Gary Griffin Director
Charles G. LaPointe Hair Designer
Brian MacDevitt Lighting Designer
Paul Tazewell Costume Designer
Linda Twine Musical Director
Jon Weston Sound Designer
Videos