THE COLOR PURPLE

A testament to the healing power of love. The epic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker comes to life in an emotional tour de force musical infused with a soul-stirring score of jazz, gospel, ragtime, and blues. Set against the backdrop of the American South in the early 20th century, the story follows the transformative journey of Celie, a young African American woman who courageously navigates a life marked by abuse, separation, and discrimination to discover the strength to break free from oppression and find her own voice. This inspiring show is a triumphant piece of art that reaffirms some fundamental truths: that Black is beautiful, that women are powerful, and that love is love.

Book by Marsha Norman
Music and Lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray
Based upon the novel written by Alice Walker and the Warner Bros./Amblin Entertainment Motion Picture

Directed by Corey Mitchell, Music Direction by Charlene Thomas, and Choreography by Stacy Dagge

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

RUN TIME: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes plus a 15 minute intermission.

DISCRETIONARY CONTENT: The Color Purple contains violence, abuse, strong language, mature themes and situations.

Want early access to tickets? Grab a Flex Package and start reserving your tickets today. More info

  • Fri, May 8th, 2026 at 8:00 pm
    Sat, May 9th, 2026 at 8:00 pm
    Sun, May 10th, 2026 at 2:30 pm
    Thu, May 14th, 2026 at 7:30 pm
    Fri, May 15th, 2026 at 8:00 pm
    Sat, May 16th, 2026 at 8:00 pm
    Sun, May 17th, 2026 at 2:30 pm
    Wed, May 20th, 2026 at 7:30 pm
    Thu, May 21st, 2026 at 7:30 pm
    Fri, May 22nd, 2026 at 8:00 pm
    Sat, May 23rd, 2026 at 8:00 pm
    Sun, May 24th, 2026 at 2:30 pm

  • Coming soon!

DATES

  • Adult - $34
    Senior (62+) - $28
    Student - $20

  • Please contact our box office at tix@theatrecharlotte.org or 704-376-3777 for details.

TICKETS

“Exquisite!  A joyous celebration of storytelling.”

— The New York Times

IF YOU LIKE…

Ragtime
Once on This Island
Caroline, or Change

…THIS IS A SHOW FOR YOU

CREATIVE TEAM

  • Corey Mitchell

    DIRECTOR

  • Charlene Thomas

    MUSIC DIRECTOR

  • Stacy Dagge

    CHOREOGRAPHER