NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Tony and Grammy-nominated musical, “The Color Purple,” based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, previews at Le Petit Theatre in the heart of the historic French Quarter, on January 12, 2023 and officially opens on January 13, running through January 29.
Set in the early 20th century American South the story spans the life of Celie, an African American woman with dreams of escaping her husband’s control to reunite with her loved ones. Celie embarks on a remarkable journey toward empowerment and self-love complimented by a joyous musical score.
“The Color Purple” is directed and choreographed by Broadway veteran and New Orleans native, Donald Jones Jr. with associate choreography and direction by Catherine Caldwell, associate production by Tommye Myrick, music direction by Berkley the Artistand music production by Delfeayeo Marsalis and David Pulphus.
The production stars Taylor James as Celie, Payj Ruffins as Nettie and Shereen Macklin as Shug. Other cast members are Bryan Williams as Mister, Myia René Carter as Sophia, Julius Chase as Harpo, Ebony Johnson as Squeak, Keri Palmer as Church Lady Doris, Shiquita Brooks as Church Lady Darlene, Charlene Robinson as Church Lady Jarene and Kadejah Oné as Church Soloist. Ensemble members with name roles include Benjay Clay as Ol’ Mister and Preacher, Alcee Jones as Grady, Noah Guitroz as Buster, Neal Eli as Pa, Breanna Collier as Olivia, Zsa Wilson as Bobby and Ceylon Seiber as Olivia and Dance Captain.
The Stage Manager for this production is Myjoycia Cezar, assisted by Nailah Dabon. Scenic Design by Dane Rhodes. Lighting Design by Diane Bass. Sound Design by Jason Doyle. Costume Design by Tiffani Sheriff and Hair/Wig/Makeup Design by Jyna Roots-Tilton.
The book adaptation is by Marsha Norman with music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray.
Individual tickets range from $25-$65 for adults and $15 students. All preview tickets on January 12 are $25. Partial subscriptions now available: pick any 4 plays for $99 and any 3 plays for $75.
Tickets can be ordered by email at BoxOffice@LePetitTheatre.com or by calling 504-522-2081 ext. 1 or directly from the theatre website at www.lepetittheatre.com. They can also be purchased at the box office, 616 St. Peter Street, on performance days, Monday through Friday, 12:00 noon-5:00 p.m.
Curtain time for evening performances is 7:30 p.m. and matinees are at 3:00 p.m.
For inquiries contact Don-Scott Cooper: 504-522-2081 ext. 5, or email dcooper@Lepetittheatre.com.
