Playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins has demonstrated “purpose” in life and that is to tell the stories of Black people in this country in a way that shows our complexity, humor, vulnerability, challenges, blind family loyalty and the demons that we may carry within us. In his new, extraordinarily brilliant Broadway play, “Purpose,” playing at the Helen Hayes Theater on W. 44th Street, he gives us the successful Jasper family, who are in search of their purpose in life. “Purpose” is all that a Broadway show should be. It is consistently funny, witty, engaging, inspiring, and full of truths people are reluctant to see.
This Black family has history in the Civil Rights Movement. Patriarch Solomon “Sonny” Jasper is a reverend and civil rights icon, and the matriarch Claudine is the steady force in the family. She is the protector and defender of her family, no matter what. They have two adult sons — Solomon “Junior” Jasper and Nazareth “Naz” Jasper, the first a disgraced politician, and the latter a nature photographer. Naz has a friend named Aziza who ends up a guest at the family’s home and what unfolds during a snowstorm at a gathering to celebrate his mother’s birthday is quite devastating to behold. Junior has his wife Morgan with him and she has her reasons for not being a happy member of this clan.
This family has so many things going on, so many skeletons in the closet, that you sit entertained, engrossed, and shocked at the issues shared during a simple family dinner. Though the production is almost three hours, it does not feel like it at all. This play is so beautifully executed by this small cast that you simply find yourself mesmerized.
Naz is the narrator of the story as it unfolds and he immediately captures your attention with humor, intrigue, and delight. This is a family that engages readily in quick wit, insults, denials and verbal attacks.
Jacobs-Jenkins gives us a story that is relatable, poignant, powerful and has layers to unpack. He talks about cutting-edge topics and shows a comfortability and ease with discussing these topics from modern perspectives to old-fashioned concepts. His words are gloriously delivered by an exceptional cast. Every person on that stage will have you riveted. Jon Michael Hill is tremendous in the role of Naz. His character has so much going on and he makes you feel at ease as you delve into the complex person he is. Kara Young is positively incredible as Aziza. This actress has such an amazing gift for not only drama, but comedic timing. When I sit in an audience and watch Kara, I am just in awe of the splendor and perfection that she brings to any role she takes on. She plays Aziza with humor, common sense and a stern belief to defend a person’s right to be who they are and not be apologetic. LaTanya Richardson Jackson is stupendous as Claudine. Her character is big on humor, guilt and guts. She is the backbone to her family and someone who has not been appreciated for the protection she has given over the decades. Harry Lennix is absolutely powerful in the role of Sonny. This is a father who holds his namesake accountable for his actions, but does not see the fault in himself. Glenn Davis is fantastic as Junior. His character is desperate, scared and confused about his life and his pathetic relationship with his father. You can also taste the rejection every time he tries to engage with his father. Alana Arenas is stunning as Morgan. At first she comes off as difficult, but once you find out her story you definitely understand why she keeps arms length from this family. I must say that this cast is Broadway perfection, but that is not something that just happens from bringing people together. There is a great responsibility put on a director to ensure that the company connects and director Phylicia Rashad effortlessly handles this gorgeous script with love, respect and dignity. There is a sense of the delicacy of a woman’s touch to this production. I also love how this play spotlights the roles that Black mothers play in their families that they often do not get credit for. This production brought many Black families to the theater and it should continue to do so.
The first thing that will grab your attention when you enter the theater is the simply exquisite set by Todd Rosenthal, the production features costume design by Dede M. Ayite, lighting design by Amith Chandrashaker and sound design by Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen. For tickets, visit purposeonbroadway.com.