NEW YORK (AP) – Actress Kara Young is currently making waves on Broadway with her role in "Purpose," a thought-provoking play by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins that delves into the complexities of an accomplished Black family. Young, who expresses her passion for every project she undertakes, stated, "Every single time I’m doing a show, I feel like it is the most important thing on the planet." This reflects her dedication to her craft and the significance she finds in each of her roles.
"Purpose," which is showing at the Helen Hayes Theater, is set against the backdrop of a tense family gathering in the Jasper family's living room in Chicago. The Jaspers, led by Pastor Solomon Jasper, a notable Civil Rights figure, and his wife Claudine, are joined by their two sons: Junior, a disgraced former state senator recently released from prison, and Naz, a nature photographer who left divinity school. Young portrays Aziza, a social worker from Harlem who is introduced to this family dynamic for the first time during a snowstorm-induced reunion.
As the family gathers, past grievances, sibling rivalries, and parental pressures surface over dinner, leading to intense confrontations. Young comments on the nature of familial relationships, saying, "We are so susceptible to get angry with the people we love the most." Her character Aziza witnesses the unraveling of long-held secrets and tensions, making her journey in the play both compelling and relatable.
Young’s performance in "Purpose" has not gone unnoticed, as it has earned her a Tony Award nomination. She is already recognized as the first Black individual to be nominated four consecutive times. Should she win again, she would become the first Black performer to secure two Tonys in a row. Since making her Broadway debut in 2021 in "Clyde’s," she has been a notable presence in several productions, including "Cost of Living" and "Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch," for which she won a Tony.
In discussing her character, Young finds a deep connection with Aziza. Both are driven by a desire to advocate for others and effect positive change in the world. "Every single play I’ve done…I’m always like, ‘Wow, this feels like this can change the world,’" Young explains, emphasizing her commitment to impactful storytelling. Aziza's empathetic nature and quest for justice resonate with Young, highlighting the important themes within the play.
"Purpose," directed by Phylicia Rashad, also features notable performances from LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Harry Lennix, Jon Michael Hill, Alana Arenas, and Glenn Davis. Hill, who plays Naz, described Young as the "heart and joy" of the cast, noting her ability to connect with everyone on a personal level. "She enters the building and she just makes time for everyone and is genuinely excited to see people," he remarked.
An anecdote that illustrates Young's infectious spirit took place on the day of the Met Gala, where she and the "Purpose" cast were invited to celebrate. As news broke that Jacobs-Jenkins won the Pulitzer Prize for drama that same day, Young's excitement was palpable; she enthusiastically promoted the play to everyone she encountered at the gala, showcasing her commitment to highlighting the significance of their work.
Having made her stage debut in the 2016 play "Pretty Hunger," Young credits playwright Patricia Ione Lloyd with helping her to discover her artistic identity. "She’s the one that kind of set a path for me in a really beautiful way," said Young, reflecting on the impact of mentorship in her career.
Looking ahead, Young is set to star in the film "Is God Is," directed by Aleshea Harris, alongside notable actors like Sterling K. Brown and Janelle Monáe. Describing the project as a blend of genres, she expressed enthusiasm for the creative journey that lies ahead. Additionally, she has a Broadway revival of "The Whoopi Monologues" planned for next summer, demonstrating her commitment to diverse and engaging roles in her career.
