The Theatre School at DePaul University proudly congratulates Glenn Davis (BFA Acting ’04) on winning a 2025 Tony Award for producing Purpose, honored as this year’s Best Play.
Davis not only brought this powerful story to Broadway as a producer but also appeared in the production as Solomon “Junior” Jasper. Sharing the stage with him was fellow Theatre School alum Alana Arenas (BFA Acting ’02), who portrayed Morgan Jasper.
Purpose has deep roots in the Chicago theatre community. The play originally premiered at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, where a strong presence of Theatre School alumni and faculty helped shape its first production. In addition to Davis and Arenas, the creative team included:
Ayanna Bria Bakari (BFA Acting ’17), Aziza Houston
Kayla Forde (BFA Acting ’18), Understudy
Shadana Patterson (MFA Acting ’15), Understudy
Tyrone Phillips, Theatre School faculty member, who served as Associate Director
This production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play Purpose exemplifies the extraordinary talent, collaboration, and commitment that define Theatre School training and the alumni community.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the entire cast, crew, and creative team for their exceptional work in bringing Purpose from its Chicago origins to Broadway acclaim.
📸 Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions