And What About That Fine Mister? Nathaniel Stampley Will Replace Isaiah Johnson in The Color Purple

Must be something to fuss about! Nathaniel Stampley, who appeared in the original production of The Color Purple in 2005, is set to take on the role of Mister beginning November 15. Isaiah Johnson is scheduled to play his last performance on November 13. As previously announced, Tony nominee Danielle Brooks will also depart the production on that date with Carrie Compere set to step in as Sofia.

Stampley appeared in the ensemble of the 2005 production and understudied the role of Harpo. He has also performed on Broadway in The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess and The Lion King; he starred in the national tour of Porgy and Bess as Porgy. His off-Broadway and regional credits include Big Love, Fiorello!, Lost in the Stars, First Noel, Man of La Mancha, Pacific Overtures, Dreamgirls, Violet and Big River.

The Color Purple features a book by Marsha Norman, lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray and music by Russell and Willis. Based on the novel by Alice Walker, the musical tells the story of Celie, a woman who, through love, finds the strength to triumph over adversity and discovers her voice in the world.

In addition to Johnson and Brooks, the current cast includes Tony winner Cynthia Erivo as Celie, Jennifer Holliday as Shug Avery, Kyle Scatliffe as Harpo, Jennie Harney as Nettie and Patrice Covington as Squeak.