Forty-two years to the day since Prince’s iconic film premiered, producer Orin Wolf has announced that Purple Rain is heading to Broadway. The musical will transfer to Broadway and open at the Majestic Theatre in spring 2027, featuring over 20 of Prince’s hits including “When Doves Cry,” “I Would Die 4 U,” “Take Me with You” and “The Beautiful Ones.” Casting will be announced at a later date.
Wolf said in a statement, “Prince is, without doubt, one of the rarest, most brilliant musicians we’ve ever had. What he accomplished with Purple Rain in 1984 — the song, the album and the film — is a testament to the art of making music and showcases it at the highest level.
Director Saheem Ali added, “Prince was an icon and Purple Rain is iconic; one of the best musical films of my generation. I watched it as a teenager in Kenya and though I was appropriately scandalized, it never left me, especially the music. Our aim is not only to honor the legacy that Prince built, but to make his timeless music feel urgent and alive, passing it on to the next generation of fans who will make it their own.”
What is the ‘Purple Rain’ musical about?
According to the official description, the show is set in “Minneapolis, 1984. A new era of music television is creating overnight stars. A magnetic young performer known as ‘The Kid’ seems like the perfect frontman to lead his bandmates to stardom. But when his past threatens everything he’s built, he’ll have to sing his way out of the darkness and into the spotlight where he belongs.”
Who is behind the ‘Purple Rain’ Broadway musical?
The production is directed by Tony-nominated Saheem Ali with a book by Peter Duchan, music supervision and orchestrations by Tony Award winner Jason Michael Webb and choreography by Emmy Award winner Ebony Williams. Bobby Z and Morris Hayes, both longtime Prince collaborators, serve as music advisers.
The creative team also includes scenic design by David Zinn, costume design by Montana Levi Blanco, lighting design by Justin Townsend and sound design by Gareth Owen.
When does ‘Purple Rain’ open on Broadway?
Purple Rain begins previews March 12, 2027 at the Majestic Theatre, with opening night set for April 12, 2027.
Featured image photo credit: Photo: Polk & Co
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