''The Color Purple,'' at Academy of Music, Through July 17th

by KYW's Karin Phillips

The Academy of Music is hosting the first North American touring production of "The Color Purple," through July 17th. 

Rufus Bonds Jr. (far right) plays Mister, the villain who redeems himself:

"He asks himself the question, have I done something wrong?"

Mariama Whyte (near right) plays the African missionary Nettie:

"Although Nettie is not necessarily on stage a lot, she's very present.  She's with Celie every moment of her life."

Bonds says that "The Color Purple," despite its sometimes difficult subject matter, is a musical of joy and triumph and a delight to audiences:

"Laughing, hollering, talking to the stage at the same time. I've never had that experience before in my life.  But it's quite amazing."

For tickets, call 215-893-1999.