"The Color Purple" Musical Looking for Singers

Vulnerable, spirited, mischievous, drives the story. Survives an onslaught of abuse and heartache throughout the story, but finds love, confidence, and a hard-won joy with the help of the women who populate her life. Needs a great belt singing voice with lots of soul. Vocal range: E3-G5

A sultry blues singer who first appears as Mister’s mistress. Confident and dynamic, with a hidden frailty. Shug becomes Celie’s close friend and eventual love interest, all the while remaining a gentle mentor who helps Celie evolve into an independent and assertive woman. Needs a knockout, Bessie Smith-style, bluesy singing voice. Vocal range: E3-E5

Also known as Albert. Like Celie, a deep well. A dominating masculine presence, capable of great brutality and aching sorrow. Does all he can to keep the world under his boot. Celie’s husband and chief tormentor for much of the story. He is in love with Shug. Transforms to a kinder man by the end of the story. Needs a great singing voice. Vocal range: F2-G4

An immovable force who looms large in any room she enters. Outspoken with a rousing sense of humor, she does not let anyone mistreat her. Exemplifies a new model of womanhood for Celie, one that allows boldness and warmth to coexist. Married to Harpo. Needs a great belt singing voice. Vocal range: E3-C5

Mister’s vulnerable, confused, good-hearted son. Represents the new generation. He marries the independent Sofia. He spends much time trying to get Sofia to obey him the way Celie obeys his father, but he is unsuccessful, as Sofia is considerably stronger than he is. Harpo eventually establishes a jukejoint in his first house and becomes Squeak’s lover. Later, he and Sofia reconcile. Through his love of Sofia, he learns how to love a woman. Needs a great tenor singing voice. Vocal range: F#2-B4

Celie’s younger sister. Adventuresome, feisty, knowledgeable and maternal. She has a powerful bond with Celie. Forced by Mister to leave Celie, she starts a new life in Africa. Needs a great belt singing voice. Vocal range: F3-C5

Harpo’s lover after Sofia leaves him. Although she is mistreated, she eventually undergoes a transformation, demanding to be called by her actual name, Mary Agnes, and starting a new life. She is of mixed ancestry. Attractive, sassy, fiery, strong-willed, unafraid to take anybody on, has a caring heart. Needs comic chops. Needs a great singing voice with belt and soprano capability. Vocal range: D#4-Eb5

All types and singing ranges. Need fantastic singing voices and dynamic personalities. To play various roles in the ensemble. The ensemble includes a trio known as Church Ladies, busybody types who are featured throughout the show.