Purlie

Purlie refers to a 1967 Broadway musical, and subsequently a 1970 film adaptation, both of which explore themes of racial equality and social justice in the American South during the Jim Crow era. The story centers on Purlie Victorious Judson, a traveling preacher who returns to his small Georgia hometown with a scheme to acquire a local plantation known as Cotchipee (pronounced "catch-a-pee") so he can convert it into an integrated church.

The character of Purlie Victorious Judson was originally created by Ossie Davis, who wrote and starred in the 1961 play Purlie Victorious, which served as the basis for the musical. The name "Purlie" itself is intended to evoke a sense of religious conviction and righteousness, albeit with a touch of humor and satire.

The musical Purlie features a score by Gary Geld and Peter Udell, and includes songs such as "I Got Love," "Walk Him Up the Stairs," and "Big Fish, Little Fish." The show's blend of gospel, blues, and traditional musical theatre styles contributed to its popularity and lasting impact.

Both the stage play and its adaptations tackle serious issues such as racism, prejudice, and the struggle for civil rights, but they do so with a comedic tone and a hopeful message about the potential for progress and reconciliation. The character of Ol' Cap'n Cotchipee, the plantation owner, is often portrayed as a caricature of Southern bigotry, providing both humor and a vehicle for social commentary.

The story's enduring relevance lies in its exploration of universal themes of justice, equality, and the power of community in the face of oppression. Purlie remains a significant work in the American theatrical canon, often revived and studied for its historical context and artistic merit.