Friday, October 5, 2018

Actor Interview: Adrianna Hicks and Carrie Compere of Paper Mill Playhouse's The Color Purple Dish About Their Roles in this Iconic Story


 Hell More!- Interview by Beth Abramson Brier

After the stunning opening night performance of “The Color Purple” at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey, I had a chance to informally chat with Adrianna Hicks (Celie) and Carrie Compere (Sofia) at the after party between photo shoots.  In sharp contrast to Celie, who must spend hours in make-up and wardrobe to look so shabby and downtrodden, Adrianna (in a fabu purple jumpsuit) is beautiful and radiant.  Carrie is just gorgeous and as sparkling as her character Sofia. Both Adrianna and Carrie were authentic and forthcoming and I thank them for taking time to talk to me before they even had a chance to get some dinner. 

What was the first performance you saw that inspired you to pursue theater?

Adrianna:  I saw a high school production of “Guys and Dolls” and I just knew.  We cannot underestimate the power and importance of the arts in school.

Carrie: I never considered a career in theater until I saw “Betsey Brown” at McCarter Theater in Princeton.  It was an all-black cast and I saw myself on stage.

How do you prepare for the strong roles of Celie and Sofia?

Adrianna and Carrie:  (answering in unison) From God! 

Adrianna:  From God’s grace.



After you give so much to your performance, how do you relax and unwind?

Adrianna and Carrie:  (again in unison and without hesitation) Netflix!

Adrianna:  I love “Jane the Virgin” it is so funny.  I’m also watching “Maniac” with Emma Stone.
Carrie:  I just finished watching “The Money Pit” with Tom Hanks.  A friend recommended it.

[Note: Adrianna and Carrie were gracious as we were interrupted for more publicity shots. Eventually I caught up with them again as they joined the very end of the buffet line.  I love them even more when I saw they headed straight to the pasta.  I followed.]