Eight-time Grammy Award winner Chaka Khan, four-time Grammy Award winner and gospel singer BeBe Winans, and 2007 “American Idol” finalist LaKisha Jones will make their Broadway debuts in the hit musical ‘The Color Purple’ starting Wednesday, January 9, 2008, at the Broadway Theatre (1681 Broadway).

Chaka Khan will play Sofia opposite BeBe Winans’ Harpo. Chaka’s highly anticipated new album, “Funk This” was released yesterday, September 25 and BeBe’s new album, “Cherch” will be released October 30. LaKisha Jones will play the Church Soloist, who opens the show with the rousing gospel number “Mysterious Ways” at all evening performances, and Sofia at all matinee performances. Jones’ first performance will be December 19, 2007, and will play the Church Soloist at all performances through January 6, 2008. The Color Purple will begin its third year on Broadway November 1, 2007.