Review: Purlie Victorious

By Chelsea Jo Williams

I was offered a chance to see Purlie: Non-Confederate Romp through the Cotton Patch for my 17th Birthday. My Grandpa David went to see the original play in 1970 starring Ossie Davis. Thank you Our Time Press!! I was absolutely blown away by the Broadway revival of “Purlie Victorious,” written by the incredible Ossie Davis, Directed by Kenny Leon, and starring the unbelievably talented Leslie Odom Jr. in the title role as “Purlie.” Let me tell you, this is a show that you simply cannot miss!
Now, I have to admit, I didn’t know much about the original stage play before going in, but boy, was I pleasantly surprised! From the moment the curtains lifted, I was immediately captivated by this new version of “Purlie Victorious.”

Prepare to be pleasantly surprised and immediately captivated by this version, even if you know very little about the original stage play. “Purlie Victorious” revolves around Purlie, a self-made black male preacher who is determined to restore Bethel, the old church in his hometown. And let me tell you, his plan to do so is nothing short of brilliant. With the help of the hilarious and talented Kara Young, who plays Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins, Purlie sets out on a sneaky mission to secure the funds needed for the church’s revival.
The chemistry between Leslie Odom Jr. and Kara Young is simply electric. Their interactions on stage had me grinning from ear to ear throughout the entire performance. The way they brought their characters to life was truly something to behold.

But it wasn’t just the two leads who stole the show. The entire cast was absolutely amazing, delivering beautiful and extremely amusing performances. Each character had their own unique charm and added depth to the story.
I was so enthralled by “Purlie Victorious” that I would gladly watch it five more times if given the chance. This play is a true gem, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.
Now, let’s talk about the characters. Leslie Odom Jr. portrays Purlie Victorious Judson, an extremely ambitious preacher who is determined to finesse the landowner, Ol’ Cap’n Cotchipee, in order to reclaim the old church. Kara Young plays Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins, a young woman from Alabama who becomes Purlie’s partner in crime and love interest. Together, they concoct a plan involving a false identity to secure the promised inheritance money.

Jay O. Sanders takes on the role of Ol’ Cap’n Cotchipee, a racist sharecrop landowner and avid segregationist who owns the land where Purlie grew up. Billy Eugene Jones portrays Gitlow Judson, Missy Judson’s husband.
Now through February 4th at the Music Box Theater 239 West 45th Street Mondays through Sundays
www.Purlievictorious.com, Tell them Our Time Press sent you.