Season 3's fourth place finalist, La Toya London, has starred in the national touring production of The Color Purple since 2006. La Toya plays the part of Nettie, whereas fellow Season 3 finalist/winner Fantasia Barrino starred as Celie in the Broadway run of the show.

While on tour with The Color Purple in Houston this week, La Toya opened up in an interview with The Houston Chronicle. She mentioned that the reason why so many Idols turn to a career in musical theater is because "We get to do what we love, make good money doing it, and stay active. We're all singers. But we want to be entertainers as well. We take a stab at theater. It's something to do while whatever else you're trying to do (is in the works)." In the interview, La Toya also mentioned that she tries to watch American Idol as often as possible.

After her run with The Color Purple has finsihed, La Toya hopes to put out another album. She released Love & Life in 2005, and has been writing songs and prepping for her next album.

View photos of La Toya on American Idol's third season.