By: Richard L. Smith
As America commemorates the 100th Anniversary of Black History Month, the moment feels both reflective and forward-looking. 
What began in 1926 as Negro History Week has grown into a century-long acknowledgment of Black resilience, creativity, pain, triumph, and cultural excellence.
In Union Township, that legacy is being honored in a powerful and unforgettable way.
In recognition of this historic milestone, Daryl Stewart Productions is presenting the Tony Award-winning musical The Color Purple at the Union Arts Center’s DMK Black Box Theater. 
The production has not only captured the attention of theatergoers, but has struck a deep cultural chord, particularly within the African-American community and among longtime supporters of the performing arts.
This is far more than a stage production. It is a moment.
The year 2026 marks a full century since Black history was formally recognized in the United States. Choosing The Color Purple to anchor this centennial observance is both intentional and symbolic.
The story, rooted in struggle, survival, sisterhood, and spiritual awakening, mirrors the themes that have defined the Black experience over the last 100 years.
It is a narrative of reclamation and healing, told through powerful performances, moving music, and raw human truth.
Union Township has embraced this production wholeheartedly. Local leaders, residents, and arts advocates have praised not only its artistic excellence, but its cultural importance.
Mayor Patricia Guerra-Frazier noted that hosting such a powerful work during the centennial year of Black History Month reflects the township’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the transformative power of the arts.
The intimate setting of the DMK Black Box Theater adds to the experience, drawing audiences into the emotional core of the story. The stunning vocals and immersive staging make each performance deeply personal and unforgettable.
Audience members should be aware that the production contains mature themes including domestic and sexual abuse, sexualized language, references to alcohol, intimacy, and staged violence, and is recommended for ages 14 and older.
For me personally, attending this production carries special meaning. I spent 25 years as an educator in the arts community, including my final 23 years before retirement at Arts High School in Newark.
While my professional background was rooted in broadcast television and media instruction, it was within the walls of Arts High that I learned to truly appreciate the depth, discipline, and transformative power of the performing arts.
Surrounded daily by young dancers, vocalists, actors, and musicians, I came to understand that performance is not simply entertainment. It is storytelling, therapy, protest, celebration, and survival.
That understanding is what compelled me not only to write about this extraordinary production, but to be present for it.
Even after more than two decades at Arts High School, I continue to learn, grow, and embrace spaces like the Union Arts Center that nurture creativity and community.
The Color Purple has been met with overwhelming support. All scheduled performances are sold out, underscoring how deeply the story resonates.
A waitlist has been established on Eventbrite for those hoping to attend should additional tickets become available.
Community members are also encouraged to follow the production on social media for updates on future dates, additional ticket releases, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Performances are scheduled for Friday, February 20, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, February 21, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Tickets were made intentionally accessible to the community at $10, with discounted $5 tickets for senior citizens, reinforcing the production’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
In a year marking 100 years of Black history, this production stands as a reminder of how far we have come, how much we have endured, and how vital the arts remain in telling our stories. In Union Township, on a small but powerful stage, The Color Purple is doing exactly that.