'The Color Purple' takes on timely message

"It's so important to see how women are coming out this space of not knowing who we are and not being comfortable expressing who we are and really taking hold of it and owning it fully," said Carrie Compere, who stars as Sophia in the touring show.

Compere has lived with the role of Sophia for a long time - starting out as an understudy and then playing the role on Broadway during its much celebrated revival. Oprah originated the role in the award-winning film.

"People have this expectation of an Oprah-esque performance," Compere said, noting that she used the book and even spoke with author Alice Walker to help shape her portrayal of Sophia.

The Color Purple focuses on a trio of black women in the 1930s.

"It puts the spotlight on women, not just black women, but women and things women go through and experience," Compere said.

One of Compere's big moments on stage is the song "Hell No," where Sophia stands up to an abusive husband.

"She is saying 'Hell no, you have no right to touch me,'" Compere said. "It is such an empowering song and so timely for today."

Compere said she feels like she is singing the song every night for her 16-year-old daughter. "I am teaching her that you have every right to own your body and say what you want," she said.