‘Purpose’ at Steppenwolf, a show NOT to be missed plays through May 12th

Paul Lisnek Behind the Curtain

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrPI4eN2UsI?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507]

Purpose is a powerful new work by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, directed by the legendary Phylicia Rashad (who played Claire Huxtable on “The Cosby Show”). The story revolves around the politically and culturally influential Jasper family which has for decades been a pillar of Black American Politics including in civil rights. But like every family, there are cracks and secrets which bubble under the surface until one weekend brings it all to a head.

The show is hilarious and explosive….simply put, it’s gripping and should NOT be missed!

Joining in the conversation are cast members: Tamara Tunie, Alana Arenas, Glenn Davis, Jon Michael Hill and Ayanna Bria Bakari for an engaging and lively conversation on the powerful nature of the play. The play has been extended and now runs through May 12^th and tickets will soon be very hard to get so do not wait!!

Tickets at: www.steppenwolf.org

https://serve.castfire.com/audio/4616756/4616756_2024-04-11-200356.64kmono.mp3

My review of the play appeared on the website: Around the Town Chicago and can be found there (along with many theater reviews, restaurant reviews and interesting articles).

Here is that review:

***** Purpose is Flawless and one of the best Productions in Steppenwolf History

“Purpose” is truly an epic family drama and one of the finest shows ever presented on the Steppenwolf stage. The play is masterfully written by two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and directed by two-time Tony Award winner (and beloved alum of The Cosby Show) Phylicia Rashad. This is most certainly a dramedy which will have you laughing hysterically out loud at so many moments only to be followed by jaw-dropping and gripping drama at others.

The plot involves the Jasper family which we learn early on has been part of the critical moments of the civil rights movement, harkening back to the historic days of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rosa Parks, but living on with glowing reputation today, at least until recently. The Jaspers are the perfect image of key pillars in the political and social movement of those days. Or are they?

Historical import aside, the Jaspers are also an American family. And like all families, they have their warts, secrets, and pressures all of which boil over in one weekend that is filled with intrigue and challenges. The action is set in Chicago which gives an extra sense of relation for us, and perhaps more than a passing suggestion of the real figures this play may be portraying (the parallels are more than singular). But it really does not matter where the action takes place. People will relate to the kinds of conflicts presented here in their own way and in their own family. These are incredibly powerful performances portrayed by actors who play intense drama and hysterical comedy flawlessly from the first moments of the play.

This is a true ensemble cast at its best. Each character is flawed and in the scope of the family, plays their own critical dysfunctional role. Harry Lennix, Alana Arenas, Glenn Davis, Jon Michael Hill, and Ayanna Bria Bakari are all believable and perfect in their roles.

In the tradition of August, Osage County, Purpose raises the bar for memorable and indeed perfect performances, truly setting a new standard for productions to follow. Simply put, this play shines with an incredible script and some of the finest performances you will ever experience on stage.

Purpose has “Broadway-bound” written all over it. See it before you have to fly to New York to do so!

“Purpose” will continue through May 12th with performances as follows:

Tuesdays 7:30pm

Wednesdays 7:30pm

Thursdays 7:30pm

Fridays 7:30pm

Saturdays 3:00pm & 7:30pm

Sundays 3:00pm

Stage: Downstairs Theater

Show Type: Drama

Box Office: 312-335-1650

www.steppenwolf.org
Steppenwolf Theatre is located at 1650 N. Halsted ( but now takes about half the block)

There is available street parking and they have parking as well- valet and self.

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