BEVERLY HILLS, Calif — Whether it's the novel, the Steven Spielberg 1985 adaptation or the Broadway musical, "The Color Purple" has become much more than just a story about sisterhood.
"This piece of literature--Corey Hawkins like to call it our poem, Danielle (Brooks) calls it our heirloom, I call it our Shakespeare, it's become a cornerstone of American culture," Taraji P. Henson said.
Produced by Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, Quincy Jones and Scott Sanders, the 2023 musical is a bold new take on "The Color Purple" with big set pieces, huge performances and sharp choreography.
The Ghanaian-born director, Blitz Bazawule, is a musician and it shows.
"I always say I am a conductor," Bazawule said. "That's all. I am the conductor of a symphony. My job is to spot the talent and make sure everyone is a master of their instrument. You can't police performances because you end up stepping on the brilliance of the actors."
Many of these masterful actors you've seen before. Most have worked with each other. "The Color Purple," they say, just feels different.
"It was an epic undertaking," said Colman Domingo who played Mister. "I mean it's a musical feature. That is one of the most difficult things we can do."
Both "American Idol" winner Fantasia Barrino and Tony-nominated actress Danielle Brooks played their characters on Broadway stages. The film has already been nominated for Golden Globes and Critics Choice awards. As for all the awards talk, they say it's about the ensemble.
"You're only as good as the person you're working with," Brooks said. "And I need that because if I'm working with people that aren't talented you're going to see it on my face!"
Imagine joining such a cast as a newcomer! Phylicia Pearl Mpasi who plays the young Celie says the whole experience has been a gift.
We wondered what it was like to have Oprah sing Happy Birthday to her.
"Oh my God!" she exclaimed. " That's another gift. I'm like what is happening. I can't believe I received that. I'm a big dreamer. I have big dreams and I never would have dreamt that moment."
Now comes a new moment with the release of a cultural touchstone, which is why the actors says there's a palpable surge of anticipation and pride.
"There's something that's different and I still don't know what is is but I know we're in the middle of it and it feels seismic," Domingo said.
"The Color Purple" is nominated for 2 Golden Globes and 5 Critics Choice Awards.
RELATED: 'The Crown' bows and takes its leave
KING 5's Evening celebrates the Northwest. Contact us: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Email.