'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.

Get Purpose tickets now.

Photo credit: Kara Young, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Alana Arenas, Glenn Davis, Jon Michael Hill, and Harry Lennix. (Photos courtesy of production)