Based on the award-winning novel written by Alice Walker and the 1985 Steven Spielberg film starring Whoopie Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey , The Colour Purple is a journey through the life of Celie, a young black girl who is abused by her step-father and beaten by her husband, but somehow she finds hope and the strength to believe in herself and a better life.

As part of it’s UK tour, The Colour Purple runs at Norwich’s Theatre Royal until Saturday 5th November.

Aaliyah Zhane (Nettie) and Me’Sha Bryan (Celie) in The Colour Purple 2022. Photo: Manuel Harlan

The talented cast show off their vocals with gospel, jazz and blues influenced musical numbers, but only a select few really stood out or would encourage me to listen to the soundtrack again – Push Da Button performed by Bree Smith as confident and sassy Shug Avery; vocal showstopper I’m Here, performed by Me’Sha Bryan who captured the heartache and troubles of a young Celie, but also her growing strength and resilience. I also liked the catchy rhythm of Big Dog which was brilliantly performed by the male ensemble, a rare sight in this female focused production.

Staging was minimal, predominately using the same wood-slated building with changing rooms and props. Unfortunately there were a few issues with the sliding set that didn’t align correctly which was very distracting.

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On its own the story is emotional and tough (before it gradually reaches hope and not fear) but I felt this adaptation delivered a tame version which shied away from the real intensity how oppressive and tough Celie’s life was. For example, violence was only ever mentioned – I’m not saying we had to witness a beating, but when you consider West Side Story’s use of lighting and blackout to suggest an act I feel this production missed out on adding an edge and reinforcing Mister’s character.

Putting the talents of the cast aside because they really were very good. The Colour Purple is a powerful story, and one relevant today, but at the end of a long performance (nearly three hours including an interval) I was underwhelmed and unlikely to see the show again. Although I am intrigued to watch the film.

*Norwich Theatre Royal – 1st November 2022.