Alice Walker’s novel “The Color Purple” depicts the lives that black women led in the 1930s American South. The musical based on this novel, co-produced by Oprah Winfrey, will play at The Fabulous Fox Theatre from Feb. 2 until Feb. 7, for its second-to-last stop on its national tour.
This musical chronicles the inspiring story of Celie, a girl who, by age 14, has gone through every sort of abuse imaginable: sexual, emotional, physical and verbal. Her stepfather, who takes away her children and forces her to marry Mister, another abusive man, impregnates her. Throughout this difficult life, Celie’s sister Netty is her only friend, and even she is taken away.
“Just when you think nothing good can happen to her, you meet Sophia,” Katina Miller, the actress playing Celie, said.
After this turning point, Celie begins to slowly accept and love herself for who she is.
“At the end she is not a victim, but a survivor,” Miller said.
Miller understood the challenges behind portraying Celie, but has found it to be a rewarding and life-altering experience.
“I feel like I identify with this character more than I thought I would, because I am continually learning from her,” she said.
She especially appreciates the character’s ability to love unconditionally.
“This is especially difficult when you don’t feel like love is being reciprocated as you want it to be,” Miller said. “The more I learn from Celie, the more I feel connected to her.”
Miller believes that the power of the musical’s story will touch anyone who sees it and that the themes in play are ultimately encouraging.
“I think it’s a universal story, but at the same time, it’s a story about women,” Miller said. “It encourages us to love ourselves no matter how many difficulties we have to face.”
Another aspect of The Color Purple that Miller appreciates is the music itself, and the mix of genres it provides.
“The musical is especially beautiful because of its authenticity,” Miller said. “It’s a great mixture of the blues and gospel styles.”
For more information about the show, visit www.colorpurple.com.
Ticketing information, as well as a list of The Fox’s upcoming schedule of shows, can be found at www.fabulousfox.com. The theater is located at 527 North Grand Blvd. in the Grand Center Arts District.