Heather Headley to replace outgoing Jennifer Hudson in 'The Color Purple'

NEW YORK, April 7 (UPI) -- Dreamgirls Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson is to wrap up her six-month run in Broadway's The Color Purple on May 8.

Heather Headley will take over the role of Shug Avery in the revival of the musical on May 10. This will be her first appearance on Broadway since winning the 2000 Tony Award for Outstanding Actress in a Musical for her performance in Aida.

"These last six months have been nothing short of a dream come true. I have found an extended family in the cast of The Color Purple that will go far beyond my commitment on-stage," said Hudson in a statement Thursday. "I owe so much to the Broadway community and our audiences. My heart is full as I say to Broadway, 'until we meet again.'"

"I was privileged to see John Doyle's production of The Color Purple and was completely moved and bowled over by his beautiful work and this brilliant company," added Headley. "I am humbled to be joining this immensely talented group of actors. I can't think of a better way to return to the Broadway stage than in this extraordinary show, helping to tell Alice Walker's story."