The highly anticipated musical adaptation of the iconic film “Purple Rain” officially opened on November 1, 2023, at the State Theatre in downtown Minneapolis. This production, which reportedly cost around $26.5 million, features a mix of veteran Broadway talent alongside newcomer Kris Kollins, who plays the lead role originally portrayed by Prince in the 1984 film.
While the musical aims to address the controversial themes present in the original movie, it ultimately thrives on the strength of its music. The cast includes seasoned professionals, such as Lileana Blain-Cruz, the Tony-nominated director, and Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, a two-time Tony Award winner, who wrote the book. The opening night attracted notable figures, including filmmaker Spike Lee and musician Bobby Z, who served as a musical adviser.
The storyline is a loose adaptation of the film, revolving around a character known as “the Kid,” played by Kollins. Notably, many characters retain their real names, creating a blend of fact and fiction. Significant scenes unfold on a replica of First Avenue, the historic nightclub where much of the film was shot. This setting contributes to the production’s authenticity but sometimes muddles the narrative.
In the lead role, Kollins has shown remarkable growth since the preview performances. Initially criticized for a lack of stage presence, he has developed into a more captivating performer, particularly during musical numbers. His portrayal of Prince’s vocal style pays homage to the late artist’s unique talent, which included mastery over various instruments and a distinctive songwriting voice.
The creative team aimed to address issues of misogyny and violence found in the original film. The characters of Apollonia and members of the Revolution, specifically Wendy and Lisa, are given more depth, while explorations of the Kid’s mental health are integrated into the storyline. Despite these efforts, some critics noted that early previews felt overly long, with a runtime exceeding three hours.
Audience reactions to the revised production indicate that cuts made prior to the official opening improved pacing, although some narrative clarity may have been sacrificed. The central character’s arc raises questions about his development, leaving some viewers with mixed feelings about his transformation from a self-absorbed individual to a slightly more empathetic figure.
Musically, the show excels, showcasing the diverse styles that defined Prince’s work. Collaborators such as Bobby Z and musical supervisor Jason Michael Webb ensure that the songs resonate with raw energy. Highlights include “The Beautiful Ones,” which closes the first act with an emotionally charged performance by Kollins, and “Darling Nikki,” a bold number that captures the essence of Prince’s more provocative persona.
During the performance of “Darling Nikki,” Kollins stands under deep red lighting, engaging directly with the audience through live camera feeds, a technique that amplifies the song’s electrifying atmosphere. This moment exemplifies how the production can occasionally overshadow its shortcomings.
“Purple Rain” runs until November 23, 2023, at the State Theatre, located at 805 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis. Tickets start at $50.25 and can be purchased via the Hennepin Arts website. While the narrative may require further refinement, the musical’s homage to Prince’s legacy through its vibrant performances and unforgettable music is undeniably its strongest asset.
