Based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel and the 1985 film directed by Steven Spielberg, The Color Purple has a rich history of storytelling that explores deep themes of abuse, racism, and female empowerment. The stage adaptation, produced by Leicester Curve and Birmingham Hippodrome, has brought these themes to life with a fresh perspective, and its recent run at the Lowry Theatre in Salford was nothing short of captivating.
The narrative follows the life of Celie, a Southern Black woman who endures decades of suffering from abuse, racism, and poverty. Through her journey, we witness her transformation from a voiceless, oppressed girl to a woman who finds her strength and identity. The story is one of resilience, capturing the harsh realities of early 20th-century America while also celebrating the power of hope, love, and self-discovery.
Alex Lowde’s set design creates an atmosphere that is both immersive and symbolic. The wooden barn-like structure, though simple, effectively mirrors Celie’s sense of entrapment. The clever use of projections and Joshua Pharo’s lighting design add layers of emotion, transitioning the audience through Celie’s journey with seamless shifts from reality to dreamlike states.
The costumes are period-appropriate and contribute to the authenticity of the characters. Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray’s music, infused with gospel and soul, provides a powerful undercurrent to the narrative. Each song is more than just an interlude; it’s an emotional expression that elevates the story, making the audience feel every bit of Celie’s pain and eventual triumph.
Me'Sha Bryan delivers a standout performance as Celie. Her portrayal is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, capturing the character’s growth with a nuanced and powerful presence. Her vocals are a force of nature, leaving the audience spellbound. Bree Smith, as Shug Avery, brings a captivating mix of strength and vulnerability to the stage, her voice radiating warmth and complexity.
Anelisa Lamola as Sofia is a scene-stealer, infusing her character with a fierce spirit that commands attention. Her interactions with Ahmed Hamad’s Harpo are both humorous and poignant, adding depth to the show’s exploration of relationships. Ako Mitchell’s Mister is a multifaceted portrayal, showing both the cruelty and the underlying humanity of his character.
The Color Purple at the Lowry is a powerful, moving production that does justice to Alice Walker’s original novel while bringing its own unique flair. The combination of a stellar cast, innovative set design, and soul-stirring music creates an experience that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. It’s a must-see for those who appreciate a story of resilience and the indomitable human spirit. This production earns a solid four stars for its ability to evoke such a strong emotional response and for its faithful yet fresh take on a classic tale.
The Color Purple is on at The Lowry until Saturday 15th October 2022, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show and see where it will be touring to please click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Manuel Harlan
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.
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