The Broadway Show: Uncut – Episode: 2025's Best New Play w/Latonya Richardson Jackson

Release Date: July 7, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of “The Broadway Show: Uncut,” host Tamsen Fadal delves into the acclaimed new play, “Purpose” by Brandon Jacobs Jenkins, which has garnered both the Pulitzer and Tony Award for Best New Play. The episode features an in-depth conversation with one of the play's stars, Latonya Richardson Jackson, alongside notable insights from co-star Phylicia Rashad and a segment featuring producer and star Glen Davis.

Exploring "Purpose" with Latonya Richardson Jackson

The episode opens with Latonya Richardson Jackson enthusiastically introducing the play “Purpose”, highlighting its critical acclaim and the remarkable team behind it.

Latonya Richardson Jackson (00:35):

“We’re going to just dive right in.”

She discusses her initial conversations with Phylicia Rashad, another star of the play, setting the stage for a dialogue about the intricate dynamics of the production.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights with Phylicia Rashad

Phylicia Rashad provides a nuanced perspective on directing “Purpose”, praising the playwright and elaborating on the collaborative spirit with the cast.

Phylicia Rashad (00:38):

“It is a perfectly written play by Brandon Jacobs Jenkins. He is a phenomenal writer, totally prolific, and incredibly genius as an actor.”

Phylicia shares her experience of stepping into this role, emphasizing the emotional depth and the meticulous nature of the script, which required her to stay adaptable as the lines evolved during rehearsals.

Phylicia Rashad (06:00):

“I'm trying to teach that to you younger people. You have to first put it in your brain that your body is going to respond that way.”

She recounts her personal journey of commitment, including undergoing surgery to partake in the play, demonstrating her dedication:

Phylicia Rashad (04:14):

“...I said, I'm gonna do this play... So we did the surgery. I told them, yes.”

The discussion touches on the rigorous demands of performing eight shows a week, balancing physical and mental stamina, and maintaining a strong connection with the audience.

Phylicia Rashad (09:22):

“This is the convergence of three great ideas. The playwright, the writer, and the cast.”

Cast Dynamics and Family Atmosphere

Latonya Richardson Jackson and Phylicia Rashad explore the familial bond among the cast members, describing the ensemble as a tightly-knit family both on and off the stage.

Latonya Richardson Jackson (03:18):

“I know the cast becomes family all the time, and it really is family on the stage.”

Phylicia Rashad (03:21):

“We have created such a chain, a bond that you can almost...”

The camaraderie is highlighted through nightly rituals, such as joining hands in a circle, reinforcing their interconnectedness and mutual support.

Artistic Direction and Theatrical Excellence

A significant portion of the episode features Charlie Cooper, artistic director at Steppenwolf, discussing the artistic direction and production nuances of “Purpose.”

Charlie Cooper (22:11):

“When we were thinking about theaters for Purpose, we wanted something that was very similar to the theater in Chicago...”

Cooper elaborates on the selection of the Helen Hayes Theater for its intimate setting, mirroring the original Steppenwolf's environment to maintain the play's personal and familial essence.

Charlie Cooper (27:56):

“...to have her say yes to this play when it was just 40 pages and then come in and use her brilliance...”

He praises Phylicia Rashad’s direction, underscoring her ability to infuse the production with depth and purpose, making her an indispensable part of the play's success.

Themes and Cultural Impact

The play “Purpose” delves into profound themes such as family legacy, civil rights, queerness, and mental health within the Black community, making it a resonant and relatable work for diverse audiences.

Charlie Cooper (29:07):

“...there is the point of family structure and what that means to a person in a particular type of family.”

The episode highlights how the play's universal themes connect with audiences, prompting reflections on personal and societal issues, and earning praise from iconic figures like Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg.

Charlie Cooper (31:48):

“...there's no way you can call this shot. So a lot of people are giving me credit, but I just say the brilliance of Brandon Jacobs Jenkins is why we're all here.”

Personal Reflections and Future Directions

Phylicia Rashad shares her aspirations beyond acting, expressing a desire to focus more on directing—a passion fueled by her experience with “Purpose.”

Phylicia Rashad (16:33):

“I really am a control person... I love all of it. I love the lighting, I love the sound... It fulfills me.”

She also touches on the evolution of her craft, reflecting on how age and experience have matured her approach to performance, blending wisdom with the vibrant energy she possesses on stage.

Phylicia Rashad (19:59):

“...it matures the way you have matured. I do.”

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a brief conversation between Tamsen Fadal and Glen Davis, offering congratulatory remarks and encouraging listeners to engage with the play.

Glen Davis (33:53):

“...a lot of people are giving me credit, but I just say the brilliance of Brandon Jacobs Jenkins is why we're all here.”

Listeners are invited to learn more about “Purpose” and secure tickets via broadway.com, emphasizing the play's significant impact and ongoing success.

Tamsen Fadal (34:05):

“To read more about Purpose and pick up tickets, head over to broadway.com. Until next time, I'm Tamsen Fadal, and this is The Broadway Show: Uncut.”

Notable Quotes

• Latonya Richardson Jackson (00:35):

  “We’re going to just dive right in.”

• Phylicia Rashad (00:38):

  “It is a perfectly written play by Brandon Jacobs Jenkins...”

• Phylicia Rashad (06:00):

  “I’m trying to teach that to you younger people...”

• Charlie Cooper (27:56):

  “...to have her say yes to this play when it was just 40 pages...”

• Phylicia Rashad (16:33):

  “I really am a control person... It fulfills me.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of “The Broadway Show: Uncut” provides an intimate look into the creation and execution of “Purpose,” highlighting the dedication, collaboration, and artistic excellence that drives its success. Through heartfelt conversations and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of why “Purpose” stands out as Broadway’s best new play of 2025.