I got to the theater and when I sat to look at my Playbill understudy sheet, I find that Danielle Brooks is out as well. Thank Goodness Heather was still in, she is TRULY spectacular as Shug, her mannerisms, her facial expressions and extravagant pose when she asks Celie has she ever seen a 'nekid' woman before. Or when she says to Celie "maybe you'll like him better dead!". She's soooo enjoyable to watch! And soulful to listen to.
The usual "Church Ladies" came up to the plate tonight as understudies and batted it out of the park. The role of Sofie was played wonderfully by Carrie Compere with comedic spirit and singing on point. I actually understood her lines a bit better since Danielle really puts in a tough girl's spin on it with the deepening of her voice and some growls for other lines, where tonight I was like "OH! That's what she said!" Ha!
The biggest shoes to fill were of Celie and Bre Jackson did not disappoint. Her Celie seemed more innocent and vulnerable than Cynthia's in Act 1, which made me feel so much for her. In Act 2, Bre wasn't as stoic as Cynthia plays the role, but that was to be expected by me as her portrayal was more innocent in Act 1. Bre's voice is beautiful, her harmonies with Heather were absolutely lovely to hear. I long awaited to hear her rendition of "I'm Here" and it was delightful. Bre really has a stunning voice.
Cynthia has that vocal edge though! It's like Cynthia sings with oxygen tanks built in her lungs and can execute a number effortlessly, that voice of hers reaches you all the way to the back row yet make you feel like you're front and center. What a strong vocalic talent she has!
I again enjoyed the performance tonight, I only wish there was a Heather Headley cast recording available!
(apologies for not putting this "review" in the appropriate chat thread. I believe I've read some in the past but don't recall in which one)
Updated On: 9/9/16 at 03:19 AM