By JIM HIGGINS Celie would have made a compelling guest on "The Oprah Winfrey Show." She was born into poverty, raped by the man she believed to be her father. Her beloved sister, Nettie, was torn away from her, and for years Celie believed her dead.

By Tom Alesia, The Wisconsin State Journal Apr. 16--Start listing UW grad Allee Willis' show business credits -- hit songwriter, renowned artist, acclaimed Broadway tunesmith, multimedia pioneer and kitsch singer -- and she responds about her behind-the-scenes, unknown status with a big laugh.

By Kerry Clawson, Akron Beacon Journal, Ohio Mar. 20--Three actors in The Color Purple tour with Northeast Ohio connections say they have a passion for both author Alice Walker's life-affirming story and the new musical's joyous blend of musical styles.

By Chris Page, The Tribune, Mesa, Ariz. Mar. 9--In this season of touring Broadway shows at Tempe's Gammage Auditorium, the biggest marquee name isn't anyone we'll be seeing onstage. But her specter still looms large.

By Julie York Coppens, The Charlotte Observer, N.C. Mar. 2--Disciples of "The Color Purple": Your prayers have been answered.