With television and made-for-TV movies or theatrical plays, (can anyone say, "Grease?") there never seems to be much reason for any of us to get out and see a real "show." But why not sit back and experience some real drama, sip on a little culture, and perhaps watch someone else dance for a change?

The Broadway hit, "The Color Purple," grants San Diego the best of opportunities just in time to jump start holiday season, at The San Diego Civic Theater, running December 2 - 7, 2008.

With a GRAMMY-nominated score featuring jazz, ragtime, gospel and blues, and a sensational line-up of talent, "The Color Purple," puts the "musical," on a level all its own. Yellow, blue green or orange, "The Color Purple," which boasts 11 Tony Awards, invites all ethnic hues with open arms to enjoy this revolutionary performance.

About the Show

Set in the deep post-civil war South, "The Color Purple" explores the struggles of black women through the central role of Celie, played by Jeannette Bayardelle. Celie, who has endured mental, emotional and physical abuse by the men in her life, mainly inflicted by her husband, Mister (Rufus Bonds Jr.), finds salvation through the other female characters, more specifically, in Shug Avery (Angela Robinson), a sultry lounge singer who helps Celie discover her own sexuality and strength as a woman. The defiant Sofia and another inspiration to Celie's deliverance, a breakthrough role for the then unknown Oprah Winfrey, who is now a producer for the show, is played by Tony-nominated, Felicia P. Fields.

Packed with enough characters and dramas to make Shakespeare jealous, the musical, adapted from the Pulitzer Prize winning novel, by Alice Walker, moves at a surprisingly quick pace. The score, unlike other musical genre competitors, is take-home worthy, and when performed by the immense talent that is cast of "The Color Purple," the combination creates an intense and unforgettable journey. Though "The Color Purple" touches on such issues as lesbianism and violence, the stories, the characters, the music and the message create a universal celebration that unites all audiences.

Don't miss the Broadway sensation "The Color Purple" during its brief stay at The San Diego Civic Theater December 2 - 7, 2008. Visit BroadwaySD.com for tickets and show times.