Steppenwolf Theatre's Pulitzer Prize-winning production of "Purpose" took home the Award for Best Play at the 2025 Tony Awards Sunday night.
In the acceptance speech, Steppenwolf Artistic Director and cast member Glenn Davis thanked Steppenwolf, which first produced the play last spring before it opened on Broadway this year.
"I dedicate this award to Steppenwolf's leadership staff, our board and especially our ensemble," Davis said. "They are, without question, some of the great artists of our country — risk-takers and innovators that have launched some of the boldest new plays in American theatrical canon."
"Purpose" also won the Tony for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play for Kara Young's performance as Aziza, making her the first Black actor to win two consecutive Tony awards.
In her speech, Young thanked her parents, the playwright, her cast and director Phylicia Rashad.
“In this world where we are so divided, theater is a sacred space that we have to honor and treasure," she said. "It makes us united."
"Purpose" was written by Brooklyn-based playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and is loosely based on the family of civil rights icon Jesse Jackson.
At the Tony's, Jacobs-Jenkins credited much of the show's success to Chicago.
"I want to just thank the city of Chicago, honestly, who made this show what it was with their enthusiasm, who sent people here," he said. "I encourage everyone to please support their local theaters. A lot of great stuff happens in New York but even more happens out in the regions."
"Purpose" is playing at the Helen Hayes Theater in New York City. Its run has been extended through August 31.