prize-winning family drama

Purpose Purpose

by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, directed by Tyrone Phillips

January 26 - February 21

OneAmerica Financial Stage

26

Tuesday

January 26, 2027

27

Wednesday

January 27, 2027

28

Thursday

January 28, 2027

29

Friday

January 29, 2027

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The 2025 Tony- & Pulitzer-Prize Winner Comes to Indy

The best in new drama is coming right here to Indianapolis with Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ absorbing and blistering Purpose.

For decades, the influential Jasper family has been a pillar of Black America—movers and shakers in the Civil Rights movement, figureheads in the church, and power players in politics. When an uninvited and starstruck guest joins what was supposed to be a closed family celebration, all the secrets just below the surface threaten to crack their foundations. The play is exquisitely written, intense, hilarious, and overflowing with drama and intrigue.

This epic work won the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, the Tony Award for Best Play, the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Play, and the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. From the opening monologue through the steady burn of revelations, Purpose is a can’t-miss experience at the IRT.

Co-production with Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

What others are saying about Purpose

Critics and audiences alike have been enthralled by Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins’ subtle yet explosive masterwork. Here’s what the critics have said about the play:

“Much of the … pleasure of watching Purpose lies in watching a top-tier craftsman set up and then launch one long domino chain of familial discord.” —Vulture

“The play leads us toward the passionately thoughtful, with plenty of profundity” —Chicago Sun-Times

“Purpose dazzles and stings.” —New York Theatre Guide

“A whirlwind of a play” —Variety

Purpose resources

Our study guide is now available! Learn more about the context of Purpose, and how the IRT brings the award-winning new play to theatre audiences.

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: start at $27 (prices vary by date and seating)
  • Runtime: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including one 15-minute intermission
  • Arrival: The lobby opens 1 hour before show time
  • Concessions: Refreshments and treats available before the show
  • Ages: Recommended for 9th grade and above
  • Accessibility: Select performances include ASL interpretation and Audio Description—see dates below.
  • Content Spotlight: Contains profanity and racially charged language, discussions of self-harm, sexuality, and gunshots.

Special Event Programming

Engaging Performance Nights You Won't Want to Miss

Show Times

Tue, January 26, 2027

7:30PM

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Wed, January 27, 2027

6:30PM

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Thu, January 28, 2027

7:30PM

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Fri, January 29, 2027

7:30PM

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Sat, January 30, 2027

5:00PM

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Sun, January 31, 2027

2:00PM

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Thu, February 4, 2027

7:30PM

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Fri, February 5, 2027

7:30PM

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Sat, February 6, 2027

1:00PM

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Sat, February 6, 2027

5:00PM

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Sun, February 7, 2027

2:00PM

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Sun, February 7, 2027

6:00PM

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Tue, February 9, 2027

6:30PM

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Wed, February 10, 2027

7:30PM

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Thu, February 11, 2027

7:30PM

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Fri, February 12, 2027

7:30PM

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Sat, February 13, 2027

4:00PM

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Sat, February 13, 2027

8:00PM

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Thu, February 18, 2027

2:00PM

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Sat, February 20, 2027

1:00PM

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Sun, February 21, 2027

2:00PM

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Ticket Info & Discounts

The IRT offers a variety of price points and discounts to fit every theatre-goer’s budget! The Ticket Office team can assist you with the best ticketing option.
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Accessibility Matters

IRT is an inclusive theatre and offers many accessibility options, including audio enhancement, large print programs, and sensory supports.
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FAQs

FAQs will be evolving as we have more information to share! Check for everything from parking and attire to ticketing needs and accommodations.
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