The Color Purple Hits the Stage with Soul, Power & Purpose at Village Theatre

Village Theatre’s new production of The Color Purple is more than a musical — it’s an emotional journey brought to life through rich harmonies, gospel roots, and a cast that feels like family.

In a recent Events to Know About interview, Back2Besa host Besa Gordon sat down with Sheilah V Walker, music supervisor for the production, to get a behind-the-scenes look at what makes this version of The Color Purple stand out.

“Every time this story is told, it’s fresh — because you have new people, new eyes, and new audiences,” said Walker.

This production uses music from the original Broadway show — not the film — with compositions by Allee Willis, Brenda Russell, and Stephen Bray. Audiences can expect a blend of gospel, R&B, soul, and even modern musical influences that give the show its vibrant energy.

“It’s inspirational,” Walker shared. “When you walk away, you will be inspired.”

Walker described the casting process as focused on finding true “triple threats” — performers who can act, sing, and dance — and revealed that both national and local talent came together to form a cast that not only sounds phenomenal but shares real chemistry.

“These performers love this piece and they’ve become a family. That’s what The Color Purple is all about,” she said. “We even needed tissue after singing that final number.”

Some of the most powerful moments in the show include Celie’s emotional solo “I’m Here” and a surprising moment of transformation from Mister — both of which promise to move audiences deeply.

“When we first did the final number together — ‘The Color Purple’ — no one said anything. We just started crying,” Walker recalled. “It sums up everything. It’s all about love.”

🎟️ The Color Purple runs at Village Theatre in Issaquah from May 27–June 29 and in Everett from July 5–27, 2025. Tickets are available now at VillageTheatre.org/Purple.

Walker, who previously conducted the first national tour and worked closely with the original production, says this version is one audiences won’t want to miss.

“You will be so happy that you invested your time, your money, and your energy into coming to see us. You will feel like family at the very end.”