The family is all gathering to celebrate the mother’s birthday along with the oldest son being released from prison. This son was caught embezzling money as a state senator. His wife must now serve her sentence. The youngest son arrives alone, but his female friend unexpectly arrives later because she has his phone. The mother convinces her to stay due to the impending storm. The crazy weather outside matches the circus at dinner when many secrets are revealed and emotions run high.
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins has written a masterpiece on the same level as Tracy Letts’ August: Osage County and Lee Edward Colston II’s The First Deep Breath. This production is epic in scale. The set created by Todd Rosenthal is an impressive two-story house. The play is riveting from start to finish and full of laughs and drama.
Glenn Davis (King James, The Christians) is fantastic as the oldest son, who is struggling to figure out who he is. Alana Arenas is great as his wife, who realizes she got in way over her head. Tamara Tunie (Law & Order: SVU) is fantastic as the mother, who is masterful about getting what she wants in her house. Harry Lennix (The Matrix series) is superb as the father, who is a legendary civil rights leader. Jon Michael Hill (True West, Pass Over) is exceptional as the youngest son, who is the narrator that guides us through all the chaos around him and within him. Ayanna Bria Bakari (Relentless, Last Night and the Night Before) is perfect as his female friend, who brings everyone to tears.
This is Steppenwolf at its best. At just under three hours long with an intermission, it’s like a 2 for 1. It is Broadway and Tony worthy and an absolute must-see!
Cost of a ticket: $82.50 (Main Floor)
PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Exceptional Value –
Rating Scale: Exceptional Value > Worth It > Half Price > Go for Free > Don’t Bother
Get tickets now for Purpose through April 28th!
Quinn Delaney
PlaylistHQ 