PEPPS showcases learners’ talent with their production of The Color Purple
PEPPS College is inviting the community to witness its learners' talent in a bold new production of The Color Purple, set to run from July 29 to 31.
POLOKWANE – The stage is set for a powerful production of The Color Purple at PEPPS Polokwane. It’s a story of faith, suffering and redemption, and it promises to be a show like no other.
Head of Department for Culture at PEPPS Polokwane, Katlego Mpepele, said the choice of the musical was driven by its music, characters and spiritual depth. He explained that the songs alone tell a story and can uplift anyone. Another reason was because of the relatability of the characters.
“We all know or have seen a Celie or Sophia in our families. Being raised and carried by strong black women, we know their plight and challenges. Characters like Mister and Harpo also reflect what men in our society go through and how they are either victims of circumstance or decide how to live their lives on their own terms,” he said.
A sneak peek
Mpepele added that there is an ongoing conversation with God throughout the story, which allows the audience to reflect on their own religion and on how we come to terms with our purpose and suffering, understanding God’s will.
“It’s a powerful story that needs to be shared and has a lot of takeaways for all individuals from all ages,” he explained.
Mpepele shared although he has read the book and watched the new movie, it was the stage production that inspired him to bring the production to PEPPS.
“I first watched it at Joburg Theatre and I can’t remember the last time I left a theatre show so full. I wanted to recreate that for the community in Polokwane. PEPPS has the talent to pull it off and the range. It is on that exact same level,” he said.
Because the original story deals with mature themes, the PEPPS team carefully adapted the script for both young performers and audiences while keeping the integrity of the story. The production has an age restriction of parental guidance 13 due to some of the strong themes.
For Mpepele, the most important message for learners is Celie’s journey of faith.
“The audience needs to see Celie’s plight. Her struggling with her faith in God because her prayers were not being answered and all the bad that fell on her. And how God uses the same people who broke her down to restore her faith in Him. That no matter what you go through, God is still faithful and His will be revealed to us when the time is right and when we are at peace with ourselves,” he said.
Rehearsals were demanding, but the cast remained dedicated. Mpepele praised the cast for their determination and understanding of the importance of storytelling. Through workshops and dialogue, they knew they had a responsibility to tell the stories correctly.
“They worked so hard and were extremely challenged and expanded. They grew so much in the process,” he added.
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He said each year the challenge is to ‘top’ the previous production. Over the years, they have set a very high standard, and although he says this every year, he thinks this is the best one yet.
He shared that the cast feels harmonious, and the music and story are right.
“We are trying new things and are not afraid to experiment. This is one of those shows that could literally change your life. It is that powerful. I demanded more than they ever thought they could deliver, but they rose to the occasion and are ready to blow everyone away once again. I am so proud of our learners,” Mpepele said.
Tickets are available at reception for R80.
