'Purlie Victorious,' starring Leslie Odom, Jr., sets full Broadway cast

The revival of Ossie Davis's play will be directed by Kenny Leon, and the production has also newly announced its performance dates and Broadway theatre.

Gillian Russo
Gillian Russo

They're victorious! Purlie Victorious has set its full Broadway cast ahead of its opening this fall. The first Broadway revival of Ossie Davis's 1961 play will go up at the Music Box Theatre.

As previously announced, Tony Award winner Leslie Odom, Jr. will play the title character. Completing the cast are Vanessa Bell Calloway as Idella Landy, Billy Eugene Jones as Gitlow Judson, Noah Pyzik as Deputy, Noah Robbins as Charlie Cotchipee, Jay O. Sanders as Ol’ Cap’n Cotchipee, Heather Alicia Simms as Missy Judson, Bill Timoney as Sheriff, and Tony Award nominee Kara Young as Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins.

The creative team, led by Tony-winning director Kenny Leon, includes set designer Derek McLane, costume designer Emilio Sosa, lighting designer Adam Honoré, and sound designer Peter Fitzgerald.

Titled in full Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch, the comedy play follow's a Black preacher's quest to reclaim his inheritance and win back his church.

Purlie Victorious performances begin September 7. The show's official opening date has yet to be announced.

Photo credit: Kara Young, Billy Eugene Jones, and Jay O. Sanders. (Photos courtesy of production)

Frequently asked questions

What is Purlie Victorious on Broadway about?

Hamilton Tony Award winner Leslie Odom, Jr. returns to Broadway in the first revival of Ossie Davis's sharp comedy. See him as a preacher who returns to his Georgia hometown to reclaim his inheritance, free enslaved workers, and save his congregation.

Where is Purlie Victorious on Broadway playing?

Purlie Victorious on Broadway is playing at Music Box Theatre. The theatre is located at 239 West 45th Street (between Broadway and 8th Avenue), New York, 10036.

How long is Purlie Victorious on Broadway?

The running time of Purlie Victorious on Broadway is 1h 40m

What's the age requirement for Purlie Victorious on Broadway?

The recommended age for Purlie Victorious on Broadway is 12+ is recommended. Children under 4 years old will not be admitted..

How do you book tickets for Purlie Victorious on Broadway?

Book tickets for Purlie Victorious on Broadway on New York Theatre Guide.

Who wrote Purlie Victorious?

Ossie Davis wrote Purlie Victorious, which marked his Broadway debut as a playwright in 1961. A veteran performer, he also played the title character.

Who directed Purlie Victorious?

Tony Award winner Kenny Leon directs Purlie Victorious. His best-known directing credits include A Soldier's Play, Topdog/Underdog, and A Raisin in the Sun.

Is Purlie Victorious appropriate for kids?

Purlie Victorious is suitable for all ages. The show does deal with themes including racism and enslavement. Please note that children 4 and younger are not permitted in Broadway theatres.

Is Purlie Victorious good?

Purlie Victorious received acclaim from famous figures like Martin Luther King, Jr. and Eleanor Roosevelt upon its premiere, and it has since gone down as a classic. With Tony Award-winning talent at the helm, this revival promises to be nothing less than funny, smart, and memorable.

Originally published on

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