Overview

• 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.