Purpose - Play

Purpose - Play at OneAmerica Mainstage - Indiana Repertory Theater

What happens when a proud family history collides with the secrets everyone would rather leave alone? Then the doors close, the guests arrive, and the real conversation begins. Purpose drops you into that moment with the Jasper family, whose public influence in civil rights, church and politics makes their private tensions all the more combustible. This is a family celebration where the polished image is about to meet a much messier truth. See the OneAmerica Mainstage - Indiana Repertory Theater venue guide for location and visitor information.

Then comes the knock that changes everything. An uninvited guest sets off the exposure of family secrets, and the evening turns on a question every audience member understands: what do we owe the people who share our name? Branden Jacobs-Jenkins wrote the play, which won the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play. Those honors belong to the play itself, and they make this a chance to see a celebrated contemporary work in Indianapolis, where Tyrone Phillips directs the local production.

You may find yourself debating legacy, loyalty and responsibility on the drive home, which is exactly what a great night out should do. IRT presents Purpose as a co-production with Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, and the Indianapolis run continues through February 21, 2027, on the OneAmerica Financial Stage. Choose the Thursday, February 18 performance at 2:00 PM and give your afternoon something sharper than routine. Bring someone who loves a good argument, and secure your seats for Purpose at Indiana Repertory Theatre.