Overview
- The world premiere opened November 5 at Hennepin Arts’ State Theatre after previews from October 16, with the engagement scheduled through November 23.
- The Broadway-aimed tryout is produced by Orin Wolf with a book by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, direction by Lileana Blain-Cruz, choreography by Ebony Williams, and music supervision by Jason Michael Webb, with Prince collaborators Bobby Z and Morris Hayes advising.
- Roughly two dozen songs from Prince’s catalog anchor the score, with Kris Kollins debuting as The Kid alongside Rachel Webb as Apollonia.
- Critics applaud the music, energy and choreography but flag issues with the book and the inexperienced lead, indicating further refinement is needed.
- Opening night drew international fans, citywide purple tributes and a First Avenue afterparty, as Hennepin Arts highlights economic benefits and pitches Minneapolis for future pre-Broadway launches.