Kicking off the 25-26 season, the Carnegie presents the award-winning musical The Color Purple.
In the heart of Northern Kentucky, The Carnegie, the region's largest multidisciplinary arts venue, is set to stage an unforgettable musical journey. THE COLOR PURPLE, a production that celebrates the strength of the human spirit, will run from June 27 to July 6, 2025.
This poignant story, based on Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, follows Celie, an African American woman in the early 20th century, as she navigates a tumultuous life filled with mature themes such as domestic abuse, violence, incest, and strong language.
The production is directed by Torie Wiggins, who has previously directed "DREAMGIRLS" and "PROOF" at The Carnegie. Wiggins, along with choreographer Julia Schick and music director Jason Alexander Holmes, have assembled a talented cast to bring this powerful narrative to life.
Leading the cast is Jordyn Jones, a current musical theatre student at UC-CCM, making her professional stage debut as Celie. Kenneth Early, known for his work at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, and Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, plays Mister. Elana Danielle Elmore, who has graced The Carnegie's stage in productions such as "THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME" and "SISTER ACT", takes on the role of Shug Avery.
Brandi La'Sherrill, who starred as Billie Holiday in The Carnegie's 2023 production of LADY DAY AT EMERSON'S BAR & GRILL, plays Nettie. JavonCameron, who was seen in DREAMGIRLS at The Carnegie, plays Harpo. Completing the ensemble are William Boatwright Jr., Jathan "JB" Briscoe, Nia Buchannon, Caira Carmelle, Austin Hoard, Mary E. Patton, Deondra Kamau Means, and Carter Minor. Edin Kebede, Fiona Capri, and Roniece Hutchins play the church ladies. Kertu Bell, who was last seen in BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL at The Carnegie, joins the cast as Squeak. Brittany "Harmony" Hayes, who has performed in DISENCHANTED at The Carnegie, rounds off the cast as Sofia.
The creative team for this production includes Scenic Designer Tyler Gabbard, Costume Designer Maria F. Ortiz Lopez, Lighting Designer Julie Cowger, Sound Designer Danielle Lobello, and Wig and Hair Designer Tiara M. Jones.
The music and lyrics for THE COLOR PURPLE are by Brenda Russell, a key creative member for this production at The Carnegie. While the full creative team has not been detailed in the provided information, Brenda Russell is noted for her work on the original musical's music and lyrics.
Tickets for THE COLOR PURPLE range from $18-$45. The run time for the production is 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an intermission. Tickets can be purchased online at thecarnegie.com, by calling 859-957-1940, or in person from the Box Office. More information about The Carnegie is available at www.thecarnegie.com or by calling (859) 491-2030.
Producing Director of Theatre TylerGabbard expresses his excitement about the production, stating that it is both intimate and epic. "THE COLOR PURPLE" promises to be a thought-provoking and moving experience, not to be missed. The production is sponsored by New Riff Distilling.
For those who appreciate powerful storytelling and exceptional musical theatre, THE COLOR PURPLE at The Carnegie is a must-see. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and uplifted by this incredible production.
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