BroadwayRadio Special Episode Summary: Glenn Davis on the Purpose of ‘Purpose’
Podcast Information:
- Title: BroadwayRadio
- Host: BroadwayRadio
- Episode: Special Episode: Glenn Davis on the Purpose of ‘Purpose’
- Release Date: May 31, 2025
- Description: Broadway's Premier Podcasts
Introduction to Glenn Davis and His Achievements
In this special episode of BroadwayRadio, host Matt Timminenni engages in an in-depth conversation with Glenn Davis, a two-time Tony nominee for the current season. Davis holds dual nominations for his portrayal of Solomon Jr. Jasper in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play Purpose and for his role as co-artistic director of the Steppenwolf Theater Company, which commissioned, premiered, and now produces the show on Broadway.
Notable Quote:
"Welcome to a special interview episode of Broadway Radio... here's my conversation with two time Tony nominee Glenn Davis." [00:07]
Balancing Dual Tony Nominations
The discussion begins with Matt congratulating Glenn on his dual Tony nominations—one for Best Featured Actor and another as Co-Artistic Director. Glenn articulates the significance of each nomination, expressing greater emotional investment in the nomination for Purpose as a produced play.
Notable Quotes:
"The fact that we were nominated for best play is hugely important to me." [02:28]
"Being nominated for best featured actor is something I did not count on... I was as surprised as anyone." [03:19]
Glenn emphasizes the intertwining nature of his roles as an artistic director and an actor, highlighting how each aspect enriches his overall contribution to the production.
Commissioning and Developing Purpose
Glenn delves into the journey of commissioning Purpose, describing it initially as a daring endeavor for Steppenwolf Theater. The play, written by Brandon Jacobs Jenkins, was pitched with only 35-40 pages, leading to skepticism within the artistic office about its feasibility.
Notable Quotes:
"I just called up his agent and asked if he could finish it. He was very surprised, but agreed." [05:26]
"By the time we got to the first night of previews, we still needed about 40 pages." [08:00]
The collaborative process with Jenkins is highlighted, showcasing how the play evolved incrementally through rehearsal and continuous refinement, ultimately leading to its successful Broadway premiere.
The Creative Process and Rewriting
Glenn describes the unique creative process with Brandon Jacobs Jenkins, where the play was built scene by scene, tailored to the actors' performances and feedback. This iterative method required flexibility and deep collaboration among the cast and creative team.
Notable Quotes:
"Brandon would come in with a scene in the second week and then another scene and then another scene in the third week, and he would slowly build it." [07:24]
"We canceled the first preview and rehearsed all day... and we knew we had something special." [09:27]
This dynamic approach not only shaped the play's narrative but also fostered a profound sense of connection and collective accomplishment among the team.
Acknowledging the Stellar Cast
Glenn praises the exceptional cast of Purpose, which set a record with five Tony nominations. He reflects on each actor's contribution, emphasizing their dedication and talent that elevated the production to its acclaimed status.
Notable Quotes:
"Kara Young... the Tony Award winner for Best Featured Actor." [20:30]
"Latonya Richardson Jackson... a legend at this point in her life." [20:58]
"John Michael Hill... the youngest actor ever to be accepted into the Steppenwolf ensemble." [21:00]
Glenn acknowledges the collective effort, stating, "This company of actors is the greatest company I've ever been a part of." [20:13]
Roles and Responsibilities as Artistic Director
The conversation shifts to Glenn's role as co-artistic director since 2020 and how it affects his participation in Steppenwolf productions. He clarifies that most of his roles were secured before assuming artistic leadership, maintaining a balance between curating the season and personal involvement in performances.
Notable Quotes:
"What's funny... cast me in what roles I want to do." [12:16]
"Myco-ad has the ability to curate a season that gets as many ensemble members in as possible." [14:12]
Glenn and his co-artistic director, Audrey Francis, strive to include ensemble members in productions to enrich the company's creative output.
Steppenwolf's Impact and the Importance of Regional Theaters
Glenn underscores the vital role of Steppenwolf Theater in representing mainstream American culture, particularly through the Midwest's diverse values and experiences. He expresses concern over the challenges faced by regional theaters amid budget cuts and cultural shifts, advocating for continued support and collaboration within the theatrical community.
Notable Quotes:
"We represent more of what the country actually is." [23:28]
"It's important for us to find other ways to come together and support each other." [24:48]
Glenn emphasizes that organizations like Steppenwolf are essential in portraying authentic American narratives, serving as a counterbalance to the New York-centric focus of Broadway.
LeBron vs. Michael Jordan: A GOAT Debate
In a light-hearted segment, Glenn addresses the perennial debate of who is the greatest NBA player—LeBron James or Michael Jordan. Acknowledging both athletes' remarkable careers, Glenn diplomatically defers the definitive answer, recognizing the unique strengths each player brings to the table.
Notable Quotes:
"LeBron has the greatest career that I've ever seen of an NBA player." [25:54]
"If you had one player to play a game with your mother's life on the line, I would say Michael Jordan." [26:23]
Glenn appreciates both players' contributions to basketball, highlighting their respective impacts and athletic prowess.
The Essence and Purpose of Purpose
Concluding the episode, Glenn discusses the core mission of the play Purpose. He articulates that the play is designed to help audiences rediscover themselves, understand their roles, and find their purpose in life. The transformative experience aims to resonate deeply with viewers, encouraging introspection and personal growth.
Notable Quotes:
"So many people come out of this play, and they rediscover things about themselves that they had lost." [27:43]
"Come find your purpose." [27:55]
Glenn encapsulates the play's intent to inspire and empower individuals through its narrative and character development.
Closing Remarks
Matt wraps up the interview by congratulating Glenn on his achievements and expressing excitement for the continued success of both Glenn and Steppenwolf Theater Company. Glenn reciprocates the sentiments, highlighting the collaborative spirit and artistic excellence that define their work.
Notable Quotes:
"Congratulations... excited to see what's next from you and from Steppenwolf." [28:10]
"Thank you so much. Matt." [28:48]
Conclusion
This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a comprehensive look into Glenn Davis's multifaceted role in the acclaimed play Purpose and his leadership at Steppenwolf Theater. Through insightful dialogue, Glenn shares the challenges and triumphs of bringing a new play to Broadway, the collaborative dynamics with a stellar cast, and the broader significance of regional theaters in American culture. Additionally, his thoughtful reflections on personal and professional growth provide listeners with a deeper understanding of the theatrical arts and the pursuit of purpose.