In-Depth Review of "Purpose" at Hayes Theatre – A ★★★★★ Analysis by MickeyJoTheatre

Introduction

In the April 24, 2025 episode of the MickeyJoTheatre podcast, host Mickey-Jo delivers a comprehensive and enthusiastic review of "Purpose," a standout play by Brandon Jacobs Jenkins performed at the Hayes Theatre on Broadway. With a perfect five-star rating, Mickey-Jo explores the play's intricate narrative, compelling characters, thematic depth, and exceptional performances, providing listeners with a detailed guide to this critically acclaimed production.

Plot Overview

"Purpose" delves into the complexities of the Jasper family, a prestigious black family in Chicago grappling with internal dysfunction and external pressures. The play is set against the backdrop of post-pandemic America, highlighting intergenerational conflicts and personal struggles.

• Commission and Background: Commissioned by Steppenwolf Theatre following Jenkins' successful play "Appropriate," which won the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play, "Purpose" continues to explore themes of familial tension and societal expectations ([00:00]).

• Setting and Premise: The story unfolds in the intimate setting of the Jasper family home. The patriarch, Solomon Jasper (played by Harry Lennox), is a revered religious and political figure central to the civil rights movement. As he approaches his 80th birthday, Solomon grapples with finding new purpose, leading him to take up beekeeping ([00:30]).

• Family Dynamics: The arrival of Solomon's son, Solomon Jasper Jr., a state senator recently released from prison for financial embezzlement, sets the stage for a tense family reunion. Alongside Nazareth (Naz), the younger son who identifies as asexual, and Aziza, Naz’s friend who faces the potential of an unexpected pregnancy, the play weaves a narrative rich with personal and political turmoil ([01:00]).

Character Analysis

Mickey-Jo provides an in-depth exploration of the play’s central characters, highlighting their complexities and the actors' nuanced performances.

1. Solomon Jasper (Harry Lennox)

   • Role: Patriarch of the Jasper family, a key figure in the civil rights movement.
   • Character Arc: Struggles with aging and relevance, turning to beekeeping as a means to regain purpose.
   • Notable Quote: "History isn't a thing that you're in, it's what they call it after the fact." ([02:50])

2. Nazareth ("Naz")

   • Role: The younger son who identifies as asexual and a nature photographer.
   • Character Arc: Navigates parental disappointment after dropping out of divinity school and seeks his own identity away from family expectations.
   • Notable Insight: Uses narration to provide emotional proximity, revealing his internal struggles and perspectives ([02:00]).

3. Aziza (Kara Young)

   • Role: Naz’s friend who discovers she might be pregnant with his child.
   • Performance: Described as "scene-stealingly hilarious" and awarded a Tony for her role in "Pelle Victorious."
   • Notable Quote: "I might be pregnant with black history." ([01:50])

4. Claudine Jasper (Latanya Richardson Jackson)

   • Role: Matriarch and Solomon’s wife, a former lawyer who manages family and external conflicts.
   • Performance: Received applause initiated by her husband, Samuel L. Jackson, showcasing her authoritative presence.
   • Notable Quote: "You'll manage to raise a whole entire felon." ([07:50])

5. Solomon Jasper Jr.

   • Role: State senator involved in financial embezzlement.
   • Character Arc: Attempts to restore family reputation while dealing with personal failures and impending imprisonment.

6. Morgan Jasper

   • Role: Solomon Jr.’s wife, facing imprisonment alongside her husband.
   • Character Arc: Reveals significant family grievances and personal struggles leading up to her explosive confession ([07:50]).

Themes and Analysis

"Purpose" masterfully intertwines multiple themes, making it a resonant piece that speaks to contemporary societal issues while honoring classic American drama.

• Legacy and Purpose:

  • Solomon's Quest: His shift to beekeeping symbolizes a search for renewed purpose and relevance in his later years.
  • Familial Expectations: The pressure on Naz and Solomon Jr. to uphold the family's esteemed legacy.

• Intergenerational Conflict:

  • Modern vs. Traditional Values: The younger generation's differing views clash with the established norms set by Solomon.
  • Identity Struggles: Naz's asexuality and Aziza’s unexpected pregnancy highlight personal identity battles against familial expectations.

• Sexuality and Identity:

  • Non-Traditional Relationships: Exploration of asexuality and its acceptance within a prestigious family.
  • Aziza's Plight: Her reaction to potentially carrying Naz's child underscores societal and personal conflicts regarding sexuality.

• Political and Social Commentary:

  • Climate Change: Solomon’s indifference to climate issues juxtaposes his past activism, offering a critique of shifting priorities.
  • Prison Industrial Complex: Solomon Jr.'s embezzlement and impending imprisonment shed light on systemic flaws and personal accountability.

• Humor and Drama Fusion:

  • Balancing Tensions: The play seamlessly blends intense dramatic moments with sharp, situational humor, reminiscent of a "soap opera meets high art" ([07:00]).

Notable Performances

Mickey-Jo highlights the exceptional performances that bring "Purpose" to life, emphasizing the actors' ability to convey deep emotional and psychological layers.

• Harry Lennox as Solomon Jasper:

  • Performance Depth: Captures the essence of a man battling the loss of purpose while maintaining his authoritative presence.
  • Audience Reaction: Elicits strong emotional responses, particularly during his commentary on history and relevance.

• Kara Young as Aziza:

  • Scene-Stealer: Delivers a performance that balances humor with profound emotional vulnerability.
  • Critical Acclaim: Young’s portrayal is lauded as a masterclass in acting, earning her a Tony Award for this role.

• Latanya Richardson Jackson as Claudine Jasper:

  • Authoritative Presence: Exhibits control and emotional restraint, expertly managing familial tensions.
  • Notable Moment: Her line, "You'll manage to raise a whole entire felon," resonates powerfully with the audience ([07:50]).

Production Elements

Mickey-Jo delves into the technical aspects that elevate "Purpose," providing insights into the creative team’s contributions.

• Set Design (Todd Rosenthal):

  • Naturalistic Aesthetic: Replicates a classic family home with intricate details, creating an immersive environment.
  • Dynamic Elements: Features such as falling snow enhance the realism and emotional tone of the play ([06:10]).

• Set Decoration and Props (Faye Armand Troncoso):

  • Detail-Oriented: Complements the set design with authentic props that add depth to the characters' lives and interactions.

• Direction (Felicia Rashad):

  • Balancing Act: Successfully navigates the play’s dual nature of intense drama and sharp humor.
  • Collaboration with Jenkins: Ensures that the vision of the playwright is fully realized on stage, maintaining thematic coherence ([07:10]).

Key Quotes and Insights

Incorporating impactful lines from the play, Mickey-Jo underscores moments that resonate deeply with audiences.

• Solomon Jasper:

  • "History isn't a thing that you're in, it's what they call it after the fact." ([02:50])
  • Insight: Reflects his struggle with relevance and the enduring impact of his past actions.

• Aziza:

  • "I might be pregnant with black history." ([01:50])
  • Insight: Captures the intersection of personal identity and historical legacy.

• Claudine Jasper:

  • "You'll manage to raise a whole entire felon." ([07:50])
  • Insight: Highlights familial disappointment and the weight of Solomon Jr.'s actions.

• Nazareth:

  • Utilizes narration to provide introspective commentary on family dynamics and personal identity ([02:00]).

Insights and Conclusions

Mickey-Jo concludes his review by lauding "Purpose" as a remarkable fusion of classic and contemporary theater. He praises Brandon Jacobs Jenkins for crafting a narrative that is both deeply personal and broadly relevant, blending intense drama with moments of levity. The play's ability to provoke thought and conversation among audiences is seen as a testament to its quality and impact.

While acknowledging that the second act might become dense with thematic elements, Mickey-Jo commends the play for its rich dialogue and complex characters, making it a must-see for enthusiasts of American family dramas and modern theatrical innovations.

Final Recommendation:
"Purpose" is highly recommended for its masterful storytelling, stellar performances, and thought-provoking themes. Mickey-Jo encourages listeners who appreciate nuanced and dynamic theater to experience the play firsthand on Broadway.

Call to Action

Mickey-Jo wraps up the episode by inviting listeners to engage with his content:

• Feedback: Encourages sharing thoughts and experiences for those who have seen "Purpose" in the comments section.
• Subscription: Urges listeners to subscribe to his YouTube channel and follow him on podcast platforms to stay updated on future reviews and theater-related content.
• Engagement: Highlights the importance of community discussion around impactful plays like "Purpose."

Closing Remark:
"Thank you so much for listening to my review. I hope that you enjoyed. If you did, make sure you're subscribed right here on YouTube. Turn on those notifications so you don't miss any upcoming Broadway or West End reviews. Or go follow me on podcast platforms. I hope that everyone is staying safe and that you have a stagey day."

MickeyJoTheatre continues to be a leading voice in theater criticism, offering insightful and passionate reviews that celebrate the art of storytelling on stage. "Purpose" stands as a shining example of contemporary theater that honors its roots while boldly addressing modern societal issues.