Directed by Lili-Anne Brown
Based on the Novel by Alice Walker and the Warner Bros./Amblin Entertainment Motion Picture
Book by Marsha Norman
Music and Lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray

“Filled with outstanding performances and heavenly gospel voices.”
–Chicago Sun-Times

June 21 - August 3, 2025 in Goodman's Albert Theatre

Around 2 hours and 50 minutes, including one 15-minute intermission

The Color Purple

Extended by Popular Demand THROUGH AUGUST 3!

Twenty years since its Broadway musical debut, The Color Purple is reborn in Lili-Anne Brown’s revelatory production—“perfection on every level!” (Chicago Sun-Times).

It’s a celebration of life, hope and the healing power of love! The musical stage adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize- and National Book Award-winning novel is a heart-rending, yet ultimately joyous, story of a young woman’s perilous journey of personal awakening in the American South. Come ready to shout in church, stomp at the juke joint, laugh and cry with unforgettable “come-to-glory gospel hymns, down-and-dirty bump-and-grinds, jazz that stutters, dips and dives, and gorgeous alto arias” (Chicago Sun-Times).

Recommended for ages 15+

This production contains mature themes including domestic abuse, violence, incest and strong language. There is brief nudity and parental discretion is advised. For a detailed breakdown of The Color Purple’s content warnings, including timing of where they appear in the show, email access@goodmantheatre.org. We also have brief show summaries available through that email address. Please allow up to three business days for a response. Hard copies of the expanded content guide and show summaries are also available at our front desk.

See why The Color Purple continues to “bring audiences to their feet” (Chicago Reader). On stage through August 3, get tickets today.

The Color Purple creative team explore discovering new moments in this beloved musical.

The incredible cast of The Color Purple prepare to bring Alice Walker’s dynamic work to the Goodman stage starting June 21. Don’t miss it.

The Color Purple cast members Shantel Renee Cribbs (NETTIE), Nicole Michelle Haskins (SOFIA), Brittney Mack (CELIE), Aerie Williams (SHUG AVERY) explore why being a part of this production has been “an enlightening experience” featuring some of the best artists in Chicago.

Don’t take The Color Purple director Lili-Anne Brown’s word for it– join us at the Goodman on Saturday, June 28 at 4:30pm for a special book club event to discuss the magic of Alice Walker’s timeless story. RSVP at GoodmanTheatre.org/BookClub

“There’s a reason why it’s a cultural touchstone.” The Color Purple director Lili-Anne Brown shares why you don’t wanna miss this timeless story—turned musical—that’s so victorious.”