Fantasia takes Atlanta by Storm in “The Color Purple”
Posted on 16 September 2009 by admin
Fantasia - Color Purple - Photo Credit Paul Kolnik
“The Color Purple” has arrived in Atlanta for its 12 day run, and the reviews of Fantasia Berrino’s performance ring true. The four-time Grammy nominated singer gives a phenomenal performance leaving one to wonder whether the role specifically was written with her in mind. The 2004 American Idol winner’s energy permeates throughout the historic Fox Theatre as she belts out songs or speaks a prayer. Fantasia’s connection with “Celie” is so undeniable you can’t help but to share her feelings. “The Color Purple” is a story of pain, family, dysfunction, love, joy, remorse and, in the end, redemption. You will feel all of those things as you watch this production unfold on the stage.
Native Atlantan and Morehouse graduate, Stu James, plays the role of “Harpo”. The production veteran (he played “Harpo” when the production was last in Atlanta), lends his command of “Harpo” to create a wonderful synergy along with the other cast members.
Fantasia’s performance as “Celie” is so compelling that those who saw the performance last year without her should demand a refund. The stage production takes on another dimension with her playing “Celie”. “The Color Purple” is of such quality it is easy to become engrossed in the production to the extent time is rendered insignificant.
As wonderful as this production is one of the more powerful scenes, when “Shug Avery” goes from the Juke Joint to her father’s church singing “God is Trying To Tell You Something” is curiously missing. Also, the production asks for donations after the show to support the building of homes for New Orleans residents still displaced by the flooding from Hurricane Katrina. This remains a cause worthy of attention and our support but the donation request seemed ill-timed and not in alignment with the production.
Nevertheless, if you have to select one production to attend this year “The Color Purple” is a wise choice. I looked over to see the MAN sitting next to me with tears coming from his eyes….need I say more.
The production is currently running at the Fox Theatre, September 15-27, 2009.
Great Review, I saw the show in NYC which also included Fantasia and I pretty felt the same way about the performance.
I have a quote on my wall which reads “What gifts are we hiding from our community because of our personal fears” (forgot the author-forgive me). Can you imagine if Fantasia gave up after being locked out of that audition in Atlanta?
Bravo Fantasia, I can’t wait to see your performance for the second time and I’m proud of and for you.
michelle
This review hit it home. I saw Fantasia in NYC and then again recently. She is a gem. She brings so much compassion and rawness to this part. Her every emotion is so real. I really hope the movie version of this is made with Fantasia in the lead. She is really magical in this role. Thank you for your thoughts.
Fantasia please keep doing what you’re doing. I know God will continue to bless you and give us fans a reason to keep supporting you.