The Color Purple Broadway Original Cast
Based on the novel by Alice Walker and the Warner Brothers/Amblin Entertainment filmA 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 by intercepting letters between them. Full synopsis
Original
Replacement
Original Cast
(Understudy)
James Brown III, a Brown University alum, has an impressive theatre background, including his performance in the original Broadway production of The Color Purple. more...
(Swing)
Eric L. Christian showcased his versatile talent in the past Broadway production of The Color Purple, among other notable shows like Evita and The Lion King. more...
(Swing)
Bobby Daye, who was part of the ensemble in The Color Purple, boasts an impressive Broadway resume including roles in The Book of Mormon and Shrek, and is also the composer of the musical Love and Southern Discomfort. more...
Brandon Victor Dixon, who earned a Tony nomination for his role in The Color Purple, is a highly acclaimed actor and producer with a diverse career spanning Broadway hits like Hamilton and Motown The Musical, as well as notable TV roles including Judas in NBC’s "Jesus Christ Superstar." more...
Older Olivia
Renee Elise Goldsberry, renowned for her Tony Award-winning performance in Hamilton, was part of the original Broadway cast of The Color Purple, where she originated the role of Nettie Harris from November 2005 to January 2006. more...
(Swing)
James Harkness, who previously graced the stage in The Color Purple, has an impressive Broadway resume including Ain't Too Proud the Life and Times of the Temptations and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and is also celebrated as an award-winning choreographer and songwriter. more...
Older Adam
Grasan Kingsberry, an Emmy Award winner, recently showcased his talent in the Grammy and Tony Award-winning Best Revival of The Color Purple, marking his eleventh Broadway production. more...
Kingsley Leggs originated the role of Mister in the 2005 Broadway production of The Color Purple, showcasing his talent in a performance that contributed to the show's impactful debut. more...
(Swing)
Kenita R. Miller, who once captivated audiences as Celie in the past Broadway production of The Color Purple, has an impressive repertoire that includes a Grammy-nominated performance in Once On This Island and roles in Come From Away and Xanadu. more...
Nathaniel Stampley, a seasoned performer with credits in both the original and revival productions of The Color Purple, has showcased his versatile talent on Broadway stages, including his roles in Cats and The Lion King. more...
Maia Nkenge Wilson, who graced the Broadway stage in the past with her performance in The Color Purple, boasts an impressive resume that includes roles in Book of Mormon, Shrek, and Rent, as well as a voice role in the film Frozen. more...
Elisabeth Withers-Mendes made a memorable Broadway debut in the 2005 production of The Color Purple, where her critically acclaimed portrayal of Shug Avery earned her praise as "a knockout" and "a revelation," highlighting her exceptional talent in the role of the blues singer who mentors and befriends Celie. more...
Virginia Ann Woodruff, who graced the Broadway stage in The Color Purple, has also showcased her talents in productions like Smokey Joe’s Cafe and All Shook Up, with her impressive career including national tours of The Who’s Tommy, Once on This Island, and The Wiz. more...
See awards and nominations on the The Color Purple page
Other productions of The Color Purple
- 2004 New York — Reading · Cast
- 2004 — World Premiere · Cast
- 2005 New York — Workshop · Cast
- 2007 US Tour — National Tour · Cast
- 2015 Broadway — Broadway Revival Production · Cast
- 2017 US Tour — Revival National Tour · Cast
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
