Broadway's ‘Purlie Victorious’ Revival: Full Cast Revealed; Led By Leslie Odom Jr.
The highly anticipated Broadway revival of Ossie Davis' iconic play, "Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch," has announced its complete cast lineup. Joining the previously announced Leslie Odom Jr., under the direction of Kenny Leon, a stellar ensemble is set to grace the stage.
Scheduled to make its grand return at the Music Box Theatre this autumn, the show will kick off with previews on September 7, followed by the grand opening night on September 27.
Sharing the limelight with Odom are exceptional talents such as Vanessa Bell Calloway portraying Idella Landy, Billy Eugene Jones as Gitlow Judson, and Noah Pyzik in the role of Deputy. Additionally, Noah Robbins takes on the character Charlie Cotchipee, while Jay O. Sanders embodies Ol’ Cap’n Cotchipee. Heather Alicia Simms is set to impress as Missy Judson, and Bill Timoney steps into the role of Sheriff. Notably, Kara Young, a nominee for the 2023 Tony Awards for "Cost of Living," brings her prowess to the character Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins.
The heart of the narrative revolves around Purlie, a charismatic traveling preacher returning to his Georgia hometown with a mission to rescue the local church and the cotton pickers on Ol’ Cap’n Cotchiepee’s plantation. The original 1961 Broadway production was a creation of Ossie Davis, who also starred alongside his wife, Ruby Dee. This dynamic pair reprised their roles in a 1963 film adaptation titled "Gone Are the Days!" The story later found a musical adaptation on Broadway in 1970, propelling Melba Moore to fame and a Tony award for her portrayal of Lutiebelle. Notably, the upcoming revival marks the first time Davis' original play graces the Main Stem.
Leslie Odom Jr. radiates excitement, noting, "Ossie Davis bestowed the American theatre with an American hero in Purlie Judson. I have cherished this piece and its creator, Mr. Davis, for more than half my life." Odom is thrilled to contribute to the revival, paying homage to Davis' legacy. This return to Broadway also marks Odom's comeback since his Tony-winning portrayal of Aaron Burr in the original "Hamilton" cast.
The Dee-Davis family joins in the anticipation, recognizing the timeless significance of Purlie's call for justice. They extend gratitude to the producers and director Kenny Leon for breathing life back into this iconic character. The creative team, led by Kenny Leon, boasts talents such as scenic designer Derek McLane, costume designer Emilio Sosa, lighting designer Adam Honoré, and sound designer Peter Fitzgerald.
Backing the revival of "Purlie Victorious" are a team of distinguished producers: Jeffrey Richards, Hunter Arnold, Irene Gandy, Willette and Manny Klausner, Kayla Greenspan, and the Broadway debut of Leslie Odom Jr. as a producer.
For more details, visit PurlieVictorious.com and prepare to be captivated by this remarkable revival.
