About this project:

Music by Jeanine Tesori | Book and lyrics by Brian Crawley | Directed by Artistic Advisor Elizabeth Margolius | Music Direction by Andra Velis Simon | opens September 16

Violet is set in 1964 in the Deep South during the early days of the Civil Rights Movement. The story follows the growth and enlightenment of a bitter young woman accidentally scarred by her father. In hopes that a TV evangelist can cure her, she embarks on a journey by bus from her sleepy North Carolina town to Oklahoma. Along the way, she meets a young black soldier who teaches her about beauty, love, courage and what it means to be an outsider.  

One of the most acclaimed off-Broadway shows of the ’90s, Violet has astounded critics and audiences alike with its powerful story and its energetic, toe-tapping gospel, rock, country, and R&B score. Winner of the Drama Critics' Circle Award and Lucille Lortel Award for Best Musical!

"Violet has the most powerful score of any musical in years." - Howard Kissel, Daily News

"Enchanting. A pure delight on every level!" - Michael Feingold, Village Voice

"A genuine sincerity and sweetness that can pierce through one's skepticism...blessed with some lovely indigenous music...a smart amalgam of country, church and blues." -Seattle Times

"Here is a truly charming and meaningful new American musical: VIOLET" - Clive Barnes, New York Post

"A lovely piece, an easy-going but rigorous work filled with unexpected details, compassion for its quirky characters and especially, a score that uses southern popular and folk influences with unpredictable sophistication and flair." - LindaWiner, Newsday

A Note from the Director: 

Violet first appeared off-Broadway at Playwrights Horizons in 1997.  Since then, it's enjoyed a nice regional life around the country. But it's been many years since it's been produced here in Chicago, so we're excited about re-imagining this sweet little piece, as only Bailiwick Chicago can.

The themes of the show are very relevant today. Aren't we all on a mission to both discover who we really are and to become who we really want to be in life? And in our media-obsessed culture, who hasn't struggled with self-image and self-worth?

Violet is such a special piece. It's very beautiful and light, with a powerful and moving story. It's a unique musical, appropriate and engaging for all ages, and inspiring to all. Please make a donation, and I hope you'll come see it!

- Elizabeth Margolius (Director)

A Note from the Producer:

Producing Violet is a great honor.  This show has such a universal and simple message that I believe will come alive through the creative partnership and guided talent of Elizabeth Margolius and Andra Velis Simon.  We have put together one of the best creative teams imaginable: along with Elizabeth and Andra, the production team includes Set Designer John Zuicker, Lighting Designer Julian Pike, Movement Advisor and Choreographer Brenda Didier, Costume Designer Bill Morey, Combat Design Beau Forbes, Orchestrations by Robert Ollis, and Associate Producer Christopher Pazdernik.  To work with such a talented and dedicated team is a producer's dream. 

However, we cannot breathe life into this show without support and in-kind donations from people like you. We can promise you that our commitment and love for this show will produce a product worthy of Chicago audiences.  Anything will make a difference… help us "kick start" this show into your hearts, and thank you!

- Kate Garassino (Producer)

Now we need your help to get us through the final stages of production. Every penny you donate will go directly to the costs necessary to making this production successful. Unfortunately, if our goal isn't met before the deadline, we don't get a penny, which means we really need you! You can donate as little as $5 to as much as you are capable of. No matter what you give, you’ll immediately become a member of the Bailiwick Chicago Society, with lots of benefits included. Every little bit counts, and we truly need your help to make this amazing production come to life.

Thank you in advance for your support! Help us spread the word!

For more information on Bailiwick Chicago: our website

For information about the show: Violet

The Cast includes: Sarah Bockel, Courtney Crouse, Harmony France, Ryan Gaffney, Glynis Gilio, Elizabeth Gray, Kevin Grubb, Nancy Kolton, John Leen, Evan Tyrone Martin, Jim DeSelm, Danni Smith

Bailiwick Chicago is a 501(c)(3) organization.  Your donation will be tax deductible (subject to the usual limitations on charitable contribution deductions under federal tax law).