Purlie Victorious
In the fifth preview of “Purlie Victorius,” director Kenny Leon gave an introduction speech about bringing this show back to the Broadway stage for the first time after its debut run sixty two years ago. He praised the playwright Ossie Davis who wrote this show with the intention of capturing the world as it was then, and the magic of it being as poignant as ever. Davis created and originated the character Purlie, taking direct inspiration from his childhood in segregated Georgia. The goal of Leon’s direction was to bring a communion of Americans, like minded or opposing, to laugh, maybe cry, and feel the story of Purlie Victorius Judson. Lead by the phenomenal Kara Young and Leslie Odom Jr, this was a complete success.
From the first moments, Purlie is bursting off of the stage. Backdropped by Derek Mclane’s beautiful wooden landscape, it is clear that the other characters as well the fourth wall can’t contain his magnetic energy. The conflict is established quickly: Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins is brought in by Purlie to pretend to be his deceased cousin whom the plantation owner owes $500, intending to fund buying and renovating a nearby barn to be his church. The dynamics of emancipation are explored through Purlie’s family and the remaining workers on Cap’n Cotchipee’s property as they try to define freedom while managing the lasting debts and injustices held over their heads.
Leslie Odom Jr. brings every ounce of star power you want from a lead. His embodiment of the reverend is first class, from the stunning vibrato that sneaks into his tone in every sermon, to the commanding prayers that unite the cast and the audience. He is so deserving of first billing, but I was ecstatic that he shares the final bows with the incredible Kara Young. Her arc through the hour and forty five minutes runtime as Lutibelle, masquerading as Cousin B, is a tour de force. She is rowdy, hysterical, yet utterly grounded. This is the best thing I’ve seen her in yet and I will definitely be rooting for her first well deserved Tony win. Billy Eugene Jones is funny as ever as Uncle Jitlow and Vanessa Bell Calloway as Idella also brings down the house with her heart and humor. This is a smash into the new Broadway season and an absolute must-see. Kenny Leon said they’re set to be open until February but will stay open as long as people keep showing up, and I’m very hopeful for a long, successful run of this phenomenal show!
