Violet tells the poignant story of a Hollywood-obsessed young woman from Spruce Pine, NC, who was accidentally scarred on the face as a child by an axe blade. Hoping that a fiery evangelist in Tulsa whom she’s seen on TV can cure her, Violet embarks on a 900-mile-long bus ride through Memphis and Arkansas to Oklahoma. Along the way, she meets two young soldiers who teach her about love, courage, and the true meaning of beauty.
Although Violet is a musical with which even many musical theatre enthusiasts are unfamiliar, its universal themes of self-love, acceptance, and spirituality make it relatable to anyone willing to truly listen. The opening number “Water in the Well” foreshadows the entire story—that even out of despair and hopelessness, our individual pilgrimage can lead to transformation and redemption, which can eventually “Bring [Us] to Light” (the closing number).
This story resonates with me as I reflect on how Covid-19 has impacted my life over the past year. The onslaught of this global pandemic mixed with the tenuous political climate and constant barrage of reminders that people of color are still fighting to be seen as human in America brought an unprecedented amount of anger and despair for me personally. Deciding to continually do the inner work so that I could “be the change I want to see” in this world has been a transformative experience.
Whatever the catalyst, be it a global pandemic or desperation for “healing” (as is the case for Violet), it takes courage to face the “scars” that we bear, be it physical, emotional, psychological, or societal. Violet speaks to me so profoundly because she is willing to take the journey, missteps and all. It is my hope that audience members will be inspired to do the same…and enjoy the show. :)
-Joy Gregory
