'I Got Love' for 'Purlie,' the musical
Last Edit: WaymanWong 01:22 pm EDT 05/25/24
Posted by: WaymanWong 01:17 pm EDT 05/25/24
In reply to: re: Hmm. Interesting opinion… - huskyital 11:52 am EDT 05/25/24

I actually have fond memories of the 1982 filmed TV version of ''PUrlie.'' It starred Robert Guillaume, who took over from the Tony-winning Cleavon Little on Broadway, plus Melba Moore, re-creating her Tony-winning turn, and Sherman Hemsley (''The Jeffersons''). It was a wonderful combination of comedy and Philip Rose and Gary Udell's delightful songs, which included my fave ''Walk Him Up the Stairs.'' But the highlight of the night was Moore's ''I Got Love.''

However, my favorite ''Purlie'' was staged by the Black Repertory Theater, directed by Nora Vaughn, in 1981. It was done in a small storefront theater where we were seated as if we were members of the congregation of the church Purlie is championing. The incredible cast performed with such a passion that the audience couldn't help getting caught up in the spirit. Sometimes, an overly enthusiastic theatergoer exhorted Lutiebelle: ''You go, girl!''

Shirley Faulkner, who should've become a big Broadway star, exploded with her dazzling ''I Got Love.'' By the time, ''Purlie'' reached its rousing, roof-raising gospel finale, I bet everyone in the theater had gone to church, even any atheists. At the time, I was reviewing for the San Francisco Examiner, so I was happy to give it a 4-star review, which helped sell out its entire run. And that ''Purlie'' remains one of the most thrilling times I've ever had in the theater.
Link Melba Moore: 'I Got Love' from 'Purlie'
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