As previously reported, R&B superstar Chaka Khan, and gospel favorite Benjamin "BeBe" Winans will also join the hit musical as Sofia and Harpo on January 9. Former American Idol finalist LaKisha Jones joins the show on December 19 as the Church Soloist -- who leads the opening number "Mysterious Ways" -- and will play that role at all performances through January 6. After Khan comes in, she will do that role only in the evenings and play Sofia at the matinees.

Love's previous stage credits include Intimate Apparel, Wit, You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown, and Smokey Joe's Cafe.

As of January 9, The Color Purple also stars Elisabeth Withers-Mendes as Shug Avery, Alton Fitzgerald White as Mister, Montego Glover as Nettie, and Krisha Marcano as Squeak.