Photo by Denise Trupe
“Zuri Washington as Felicia, shines in “Colored Woman,” a power ballad where she laments the lack of life opportunities for African-American women in the 1950s—a situation made more dire by the intolerance of those around her. Her rendition was tear-jerking and powerful—truly setting the emotional arc of the entire performance. Washington was able to carry her character’s emotional transformation from the first act to the second, demonstrating that she truly is a triple threat. She led the audience in a tender moment in the second act as her character contemplates leaving Memphis and Huey in the ballad “Love Will Stand When All Else Falls”.”
“The one-two punch of Washington and Hines really made this “Memphis” a must-see attraction.”
“Zuri Washington as Felicia is lovely and passionate in her approach to the role... her performance stands out for her commitment to her character. Her performance of the song “Colored Woman” is one of the best moments in the show.”
“Zuri Washington’s singing caused Pacemakers to misfire as she played Felicia, the black singer Huey falls for. If anyone ever makes a biopic about Whitney Houston, Washington is a ringer for the role.”
“[I]t’s Washington’s performance that’s the true standout here: She’s got a killer voice, and she turns Felicia into a tough, strong-willed woman who ends up succeeding through her own talent and determination.”
