The Beat Goes On: Brian Kirk's Journey to Village Theatre's "The Color Purple"

Seattle, WA – In a recent interview on "The Day with Trae," Brian Kirk, the talented drummer for the Village Theatre's production of The Color Purple, shared his inspiring musical journey, revealing how a childhood surrounded by jazz legends led him to the stage and pit alike.

Kirk's path to percussion began early, influenced by his father, a jazz drummer who performed in musical theater in Indianapolis. "I started playing drums when I was about six or seven or eight," Kirk recalled, adding that he began serious study around age 13. His academic pursuits led him to a degree in classical percussion and a master's in jazz and contemporary studies from NYU.

Growing up in San Francisco, Kirk's home was a hub for musicians, fostering an environment where he learned from the best. He recounted how his father's "Percussion Pool" organization brought drummers together for jam sessions and camaraderie, an experience that instilled in him both professional discipline and a love for the craft.

Kirk's early career saw him playing in garage and funk bands in the Bay Area. His passion for musical theater soon led him to volunteer for local productions of classics like A Chorus Line and Dreamgirls. A pivotal moment came with a job at Great America Amusement Park (now Six Flags Great America), where he gained invaluable experience playing in musical theater shows, sometimes performing eight shows a day, six days a week.

His diverse experiences continued to grow, even leading him to play vibraphone and percussion for Gladys Knight and The Pips. This varied background culminated in a move to New York in 1986, followed by his studies at NYU.

Kirk's arrival in the Pacific Northwest 30 years ago was serendipitous. While on tour with the Pointer Sisters in the "Ain't Misbehavin'" show, he realized the toll the road was taking on his family. He sought opportunities closer to home and secured a teaching position at Seattle Central College, bringing him to Seattle.

Now, Kirk is lending his formidable talents to The Color Purple at Village Theatre. He expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to play in what he considers a dream show. "It's phenomenal," he said, describing the production as "just like going to church seven times a week." He praised the cast's vocal prowess, likening them to lead singers in a gospel choir who "all come together and blend really well." He also lauded pianist and conductor Tim Simons as "one of the best pianist-conductors I've ever played with." Kirk also added, “It was an honor and privilege for me to work with Music Supervisor Sheilah V Walker, a musical director legend on Broadway."

For those eager to experience this unique production, The Color Purple is currently playing at Village Theatre in Issaquah through June 28th. The show then moves to the Everett Performing Arts Center, running from July 5th through July 27th. Tickets can be purchased at www.VillageTheatre.org. Kirk's journey underscores the profound impact of dedication and the power of live performance to bring stories to life in unforgettable ways.