How did it take me so long to see any production helmed by Kenny Leon??? He knows a thing or two of how to keep it simple and still have SO much of a message to tell that screams “relevance” as much as it did when “Purlie Victorious” first premiered in the 20th century. But if this play leaves you with anything other than your sides split from such great comic chops and a fair amount of shock, you’ll find that there will be a strong resonance of hope as you leave your seat; the hope for a more peaceful, loving community we’re all striving to reach. If anything, Leslie Odom, Jr. is the man at the center of it all that ignites that sense of hope in us as he fights, preaches, and inspires in a masterclass of a leading performance. And standing right next to him is the just as endearing Kara Young who will make you feel like more of a believer than you’ve ever felt before; she’s flat out gut busting and presents a powerful stage presence that shines as bright as a holy angel’s halo, and you’ll fall in love with her from beginning to end. It’s a provocative, laugh-out-loud, powerful production that just needs to be seen today more than ever. All are welcome at the church known as the Music Box Theater, so go see “Purlie Victorious” and hopefully you’ll be crying out “Hallelujah!” as you leave your seat.
