Interviews: The Opening Night of PURPOSE on Broadway

The highly anticipated Broadway premiere of PURPOSE has arrived, bringing Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ gripping family drama to life under the direction of Phylicia Rashad, who makes her Broadway directorial debut with this production. The play, which explores the power, faith, and deep-seated secrets of a prominent Black political family, has already generated major buzz. On opening night, I spoke with the show’s incredible cast to discuss their roles, the significance of PURPOSE, and what audiences can expect from this electrifying new work.

LaTanya Richardson Jackson (Claudine Jasper) – A Tony Award nominee and Broadway powerhouse, LaTanya Richardson Jackson takes on the role of Claudine Jasper, the formidable matriarch of the Jasper family. Known for her unforgettable performances in To Kill a Mockingbird and A Raisin in the Sun, as well as her work in film (U.S. Marshals, The Fighting Temptations) and television (Grey’s Anatomy, Luke Cage), she continues to leave her mark on the stage. She also made history as the first woman to direct August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson on Broadway.

Kara Young (Aziza Houston) – Tony Award winner Kara Young stars as Aziza Houston. Having captivated Broadway audiences in Purlie Victorious, The Cost of Living, and Clyde’s, she once again proves why she is one of the most exciting talents on the stage today.

Harry Lennix (Solomon Jasper) – Best known for his roles in The Blacklist and Man of Steel, as well as Broadway’s Radio Golf, Harry Lennix plays Solomon Jasper, the patriarch of the influential Jasper family. With his commanding presence, Lennix brings depth and complexity to the role of a leader grappling with the weight of family legacy.

Jon Michael Hill (Nazareth ‘Naz’ Jasper) – A Steppenwolf Theatre Company ensemble member, Jon Michael Hill portrays Nazareth Jasper, the youngest son whose unexpected return home sets the story in motion. Broadway audiences know him from Pass Over, and TV fans recognize him from A Man in Full and Elementary.

Glenn Davis (Solomon ‘Junior’ Jasper) – As Solomon "Junior" Jasper, Steppenwolf Co-Artistic Director Glenn Davis tackles the role of the eldest Jasper son. Davis, known for Downstate and King James, brings intensity and nuance to this complex family dynamic.

Alana Arenas (Morgan Jasper) – Alana Arenas makes her Broadway debut in Purpose. Arenas plays Morgan Jasper, a key figure in the family drama. Audiences may recognize her from The Bluest Eye and the acclaimed TV series David Makes Man.

For decades, the influential Jasper family has been a pillar of Black American politics: civil rights leaders, pastors, and congressmen. But like all families, there are cracks and secrets just under the surface. When the youngest son Nazareth returns home with an uninvited friend in tow, the family is forced into a reckoning with itself, its faith, and the legacies of Black political power and familial duty. Spirited, hilarious, and filled with intrigue, PURPOSE is an epic family drama from one of the country’s most celebrated voices.

PURPOSE features scenic design by Todd Rosenthal, costume design by Dede M. Ayite, lighting design by Amith Chandrashaker, and sound design by Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen. Casting is by JC Clementz, CSA, and Calleri Jensen Davis. The Production Stage Manager is Tiffany Robinson. General Management is by 321 Theatrical Management.

For more information on PURPOSE, visit www.PurposeOnBroadway.com!