The multitalented actress and writer joined Sean Mikesh ’25, an acting BFA major, for a wide-ranging conversation on March 4 discussing her career trajectory from the Elon stage to big-screen Hollywood recognition.
Elon University welcomed back performing arts alumna Phylicia Pearl Mpasi ’15 for a virtual moderated discussion and film screening of her breakout role in the 2023 Warner Bros. adaptation of “The Color Purple.” The March 4 event, held at Turner Theatre, featured a lively conversation between Mpasi and current acting BFA major Sean Mikesh ’25, offering insights into her journey from Elon’s stage to Hollywood recognition.
Mpasi, who portrayed the younger version of Celie in “The Color Purple,” shared her experiences navigating the entertainment industry, reflecting on her time at Elon, and discussing the challenges and triumphs of bringing Alice Walker’s iconic character to life on screen. The conversation covered a range of topics, including Mpasi’s decision to attend Elon, the audition process, and the differences between preparing for roles in theater versus film.
During the discussion, Mpasi addressed the emotional complexity of playing Celie, a character who endures significant hardships, including intimate partner violence and psychological abuse. Initially hesitant about taking on the role, the Elon alumna ultimately embraced the opportunity following deep personal reflection. She credited her earlier experience with the role in Elon’s 2015 stage production of “The Color Purple” as instrumental in building her confidence.
Her performance garnered widespread acclaim, earning her the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture, alongside recognition for Best Ensemble. Mpasi also spoke fondly about the friendships she formed with co-stars Halle Bailey and Danielle Brooks, calling the experience life-changing.
In her advice to current students, Mpasi encouraged them to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, emphasizing the strength of Elon’s industry reputation. “The Elon University brand is a powerful thing,” she declared, revealing the innumerable connections she has made in Los Angeles thanks to her alma mater.
Additionally, Mpasi recalled the deep connections she has forged with faculty and alumni, which included a heartfelt moment during the event when retired dance faculty member Jane Wellford greeted her from the audience. Visibly delighted, Mpasi briefly reminisced about the regular dinner invitations she enjoyed at Wellford’s home during her undergraduate years at Elon.
This warm reunion prompted Mpasi to recall the sense of permanence she and her mother felt at the Williamson-Haggard intersection on her first visit to campus. “I immediately knew this was where I was supposed to be,” she told audience members.
The event was co-organized by Kai Swanson, assistant professor of cinema and television arts, and Lina Kuhn, lecturer in English, on behalf of the Global Film & Cultures minor, an interdisciplinary collaboration between the Department of Cinema and Television Arts and the Department of English. Mpasi’s virtual visit and film screening were made possible thanks to a Fund for Excellence Grant.
Dan Burns, assistant professor of English, contributed to the release.