“A blistering Steppenwolf production with explosive, knee-buckling intensity.” – Chicago Sun-Times

From Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, the Tony Award–winning playwright of Appropriate, comes Purpose, directed by two-time Tony Award–winner Phylicia Rashad. Prior to the start of Broadway previews, join the cast and creatives for a first look at the production direct from a white-hot run at Steppenwolf Theatre Company.

For decades, the influential Jasper family has been a pillar of Black American politics, serving as 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 to Illinois with an uninvited friend in tow, the family is forced to reckon with itself, its faith, and the legacies of Black radicalism. Spirited, hilarious, and filled with intrigue, Purpose is an epic family drama from one of the country’s most celebrated voices.

Leadership support for this Works & Process program is provided by Nina Matis, in honor of Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins.

Left: Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. Photo: Courtesy the artist; right: Phylicia Rashad. Photo: Luis Barrios