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The Color Purple
The Musical
About
"The Color Purple" musical, adapted from Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, is a powerful and emotionally charged theatrical experience that explores the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. Set against the backdrop of the American South in the early 20th century, the musical follows the journey of Celie, a resilient African American woman, as she navigates through the challenges of abuse, sexism, and self-discovery. With a soul-stirring score by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray, "The Color Purple" celebrates the transformative power of love, friendship, and the pursuit of one's own identity. The production has garnered critical acclaim for its moving narrative, stunning performances, and soulful musical numbers, making it a must-see for audiences seeking a poignant and uplifting theatrical experience.
Meet The Cast
Leah Jenea (Celie)
Justus Wheatley (Mister)
K Bernice (Sofia)
Christa Caldwell (Shug)
803a6e_6da86690a2a34530b0e68fadc31cbcc4~mv2
Shayla Mitchell (Doris)
Ndanu Mutisya (Darlene)
Dana Harris (Jarene)
Melyssa Searcy (Ensemble)
Nanci Noel-Cross_edited
Jay Hanks (Pa/Ensemble)
Adrian Davenport (Ensemble)
Sean Johnson (Ensemble)
Marquise Neal (Ensemble)
Meet The Cast
Partners
OUR PARTNERS
THE BLOG
THE BLOG
The Initiative
THE INITIATIVE
Superintendent Leon’s vision for Newark Public Schools comes to life with the Progressive Theater’s Professional Arts Outreach Bridge Program. This initiative offers students, post-graduates, and community members a unique chance to delve into theatrical arts, culminating in a community production of THE COLOR PURPLE. The program’s 14-day immersive rehearsals mirror the intensity of regional theater, fostering artistic skills, discipline, teamwork, and dedication. Aligned with Superintendent Leon’s 2020 Clarity, the program serves as a bridge from academia to the professional arts scene, providing a real-world experience beyond graduation. Centered around the powerful musical, THE COLOR PURPLE, participants showcase their talents through eight performances, creating a shared cultural experience that goes beyond the stage. Stay tuned for updates on this inspiring journey, demonstrating the arts’ ability to bridge gaps, uplift communities, and shape the future of aspiring artists in Newark.
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