Broadway's 'Purpose' Explores Legacy and Scandal in a Black Political Dynasty

The play, directed by Phylicia Rashad and inspired by Jesse Jackson's family, delivers humor, drama, and sharp social commentary, though its second act faces pacing critiques.

Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s 'Purpose' examines corruption, faith, and family dynamics through the fictional Jasper family, modeled on Jesse Jackson's political dynasty.
The narrative unfolds over one eventful night as Solomon Jasper’s son returns from prison, and his daughter-in-law prepares to serve her sentence.
Directed by Phylicia Rashad, the production features standout performances from Harry Lennix, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, and Kara Young.
Critics praise the play’s humor, emotional depth, and sharp writing, while noting a loss of momentum in the second act.
Running nearly three hours, the play combines humor and drama to interrogate the civil rights movement’s legacy and its leaders’ personal flaws.