Color Purple - Reviews - Boston

[joe5]

Posted: 6/19/09 at 7:30am

http://www.boston.com/ae/theater_arts/articles/2009/06/19/a_strong_and_spirited_color_purple/

http://www.metro.us/us/article/2009/06/19/01/2923-72/index.xml


Updated On: 6/19/09 at 07:30 AM

[dramamama611]

Posted: 6/19/09 at 7:59am

That's about how I felt about the b'way show. I'm glad he mentioned the many white faces ammong the predominant african american audience. I am glad that, at least in Boston, it's not just a "black" story. I was shocked and saddened, in NY, how few white people made up the audience that I went to.

I love the epic story of the Color Purple, and think it's so much more than a black woman's story. I understand the appeal to the African American population to flock to the show, but I hate that I felt white audiences stayed away.


PS...the second link for the Herald didnt' work.

Updated On: 6/19/09 at 07:59 AM

[joe5]

Posted: 6/19/09 at 8:10am

Thanks, I removed the Herald link. Sorry

[fgreene1938]

Posted: 6/19/09 at 8:28am

I think "The Color Purple" was underrated by critics. Yes, the book was a bit of a Cliff Notes version of the novel (too many characters and plot turns to squeeze in) but the score was very good indeed, the production values were excellent and the cast excelled. The Boston reviews have been positive although the show is playing in the cavernous Citi Wang Center, which makes the Gershwin look like a supper club (Wang's upper balcony is like Fenway Park). Both Felicia P. Fields (Sofia) and Brandon Victor Dixon (Harpo) from the original cast are repeating their Tony-nommed roles here, which makes this a must-see.

[jmnpublications]

Posted: 6/19/09 at 8:57am

My BWW review from the Bushnell tour stop last week.
Tears When I'm Happy

[jennamajig]

Posted: 6/19/09 at 10:21am

I just saw this production last night and I was happy to report that audience was filled with people of all colors and everyone seemed to be enjoying the central themes of the show just as much.

I have to admit, I was not familiar with the show prior to seeing it and thought that the Globe was spot on with my feelings about the show. It's not perfect, but it is very moving and filled with terrific performances! Felicia P. Fields as Sophie nearly stole the show for me and the audience ate her up every second she was on stage. Though, I was slightly surprised at the gasps when....

**spoiler alert**

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Shug Avery kissed Celie. I didn't know much about the show, but I did know that would happen. I think it caught many people off guard last night, at least in the front mezz.

And, fgreene1938, the Wang rear balcony is pretty far back...I compare it the Palace in NYC, but even then, I think the Wang seats more. The rear orchestra also feels miles away. However, having sat in the balcony of the Opera House...wow, now that was far back! Great sight lines, but tiny performers.