'Purpose' names Broadway cast including LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Kara Young
Phylicia Rashad directs Tony Award winner and Pulitzer Prize finalist Branden Jacobs-Jenkins's family drama, playing at the Hayes Theater this spring.
Casting has been set for Purpose on Broadway, a new play by 2024 Tony Award winner Branden Jacobs-Jenkins playing at the Hayes Theater beginning February 25. Opening night is March 17.
The cast includes 2024 Tony winner Kara Young as Aziza Houston, LaTanya Richardson Jackson as Claudine Jasper, Alana Arenas as Morgan Jasper, Glenn Davis as Solomon “Junior” Jasper Jr., Jon Michael Hill as Nazareth “Naz” Jasper, and Harry Lennix as Solomon “Sonny” Jasper.
All but Young and Jackson reprise their roles from Steppenwolf Theatre Company's world-premiere production of Purpose in Chicago earlier this year. Tony Award winner Phylicia Rashad also returns to stage the show, making her Broadway directing debut.
Purpose follows the fictional Jasper family, filled with influential Black political figures. When one of the Jasper sons brings home an uninvited friend, the family must reckon with itself and the legacy they've contributed to.
Purpose is the second Broadway play in quick succession from Jacobs-Jenkins, who was first represented earlier this year with another family drama, Appropriate. That show won three Tonys, including Best Revival of a Play.
Photo credit: Kara Young, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Alana Arenas, Glenn Davis, Jon Michael Hill, and Harry Lennix. (Photos courtesy of production)
Frequently asked questions
What's the age requirement for Purpose?
The recommended age for Purpose is Ages 12+..
How do you book tickets for Purpose?
Book tickets for Purpose on New York Theatre Guide.
How long is Purpose?
The running time of Purpose is 2hr 50min. Incl. 1 intermission.
Where is Purpose playing?
Purpose is playing at Hayes Theater. The theatre is located at 240 West 44th Street, New York, 10036.
Who directed Purpose?
TV and stage star Phylicia Rashad directs this new play, making its Broadway premiere.
What is Purpose about?
See the four-star (Chicago Tribune) Purpose play on Broadway. A new work from Tony Award winner Branden Jacobs-Jenkins (Appropriate), Purpose in New York is an epic family drama directed by Phylicia Rashad. Now the recipient of six Tony Award nominations.
Who wrote Purpose?
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, a Pulitzer finalist and MacArthur "Genuys" grant winner, wrote this play after his smash hit, Appropriate.
Is Purpose good?
Purpose got rave reviews in Chicago during its run at acclaimed theatre Steppenwolf, including two four-star reviews from the Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times.
Is Purpose appropriate for kids?
Purpose will be intended for a more mature audiences and children must be four and over to come see Broadway shows.
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