VIOLET
Music by Jeanine Tesori
Lyrics and Book by Brian Crawley
Directed by Ben Raanan
co-produced by Phamaly Theatre Company
Based on “The Ugliest Pilgrim” by Doris Betts
Friday, June 5- Sunday, June 28, 2026 | Mainstage Theater
VIOLET is a contemporary musical that follows a young woman’s transformative journey across the American South in search of healing, belonging and self-acceptance. Set in the 1960s, the story centers on Violet, who travels by bus to seek a televangelist she believes can cure a facial scar, encountering unexpected friendships and challenges along the way.
Featuring a rich, genre-blending score that draws from American roots, folk and gospel, “Violet” pairs emotional storytelling with powerful, character-driven songs. With music by Tony Award-winning composer Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics by Brian Crawley, the musical is based on Doris Betts’ short story “The Ugliest Pilgrim.”
Originally premiering Off-Broadway in 1997, where it won the Drama Critics’ Circle Award and Lucille Lortel Award for Best Musical, “Violet” later made its Tony-nominated Broadway debut in 2014.
RECOMMENDED FOR: Adults
CONTENT ADVISORY: Contains strong language, mature themes, sexual content, depictions of violence, and references to child abuse.
VIOLET is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre Internationals (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
Accessibility Services
Captions available at all performances
Audio Description available on Access Day, June 14, 2026, or by request for any performance with 2 weeks advance notice by emailing info@phamaly.org
American Sign Language Interpretation is available on Access Day, June 14, 2026.
Please email info@phamaly.org to reserve.
Assisted listening devices (limited supply first come first serve)
Wheelchair Accessible Seating
Low sensory quiet spaces: Available at all performances
Accessibility Materials: Braille programs, Sensory Guide, Accessibility Guide, Fidgets, etc.