Purlie (1981) | Robert Guillaume, Sherman Hemsley, Melba Moore

A rousing revival of “by far the most successful and richest of all black musicals” — The New York Times. From the roof-rocking opening gospel number to the static “hallelujah chorus” grand finale, “Purlie” is a rollicking, wildly comic folk yarn that will set you romping and stomping with genuine down home delight. Set on a Georgia plantation, this award winning Broadway musical— based on the play Purlie Victorious by Ossie Davis—has been radiantly revived with three outstanding stars. Melba Moore recreates the Tony Award winning role that catapulted her to instant stardom, in a performance hailed as glowing enchanting and awesome. Once again, she is simply sensational as Lutiebelle, the spirited girl who sets her cap for the preacher. “Benson” star Robert Guillaume brings a rip roaring fervor to the part of Purlie Victorious Judson, a high prancing self styled churchman who involves Lutiebelle in his scheme to hoodwink $500 from Ol’ Cap’n Cotcchipee. And as the sly shuffling overse