‘Purple Rain’ Musical To Premiere In Minneapolis Before Heading To Broadway

Minneapolis, the city that shaped the sound and spirit of Prince, is set to host the world premiere of ‘Purple Rain: The Musical’ at the historic State Theatre, beginning October 16, 2025. Anticipation for the production has soared, prompting organizers to extend its run through November 23, 2025, due to overwhelming audience demand .

This pre-Broadway debut is more than a local event; it is a celebration of Prince’s enduring influence on music, culture, and the city that inspired his greatest works. The musical’s world premiere in Minneapolis is intentionally symbolic, paying homage to Prince’s formative years and to the vibrant community that fostered his creativity .

‘Purple Rain: The Musical’ brings to life the electrifying, fictional journey of “The Kid,” a talented but troubled young musician navigating the complexities of Minneapolis’s club scene. The narrative traces his struggle with a tumultuous home life, a fierce rivalry with another band, and a blossoming romance with an aspiring singer — all while fighting to find his own voice and seize the limelight .

The story, originally conceived by Prince, has been reimagined for the stage with a book by two-time Tony Award winner and Pulitzer Prize recipient Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, based on the original screenplay by Albert Magnoli and William Blinn. The production’s creative team features Tony Award-nominated director Lileana Blain-Cruz, choreography by Ebony Williams, and music supervision, arrangements, and orchestrations by Tony Award winner Jason Michael Webb .

The musical’s design team includes David Zinn (scenic design), Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom (video & projection design), Montana Levi Blanco (costume design), Yi Zhao (lighting design), Palmer Hefferan (sound design), Cookie Jordan (hair and wig design), and Kyle Krueger (makeup design). The production is cast by Taylor Williams and stage managed by Amanda Spooner .

The decision to launch the musical in Minneapolis resonates deeply with both the production team and local audiences. Prince’s relationship with his hometown was foundational to his artistry. Minneapolis is not only where the ‘Purple Rain’ film was set and shot but also home to Paisley Park, Prince’s legendary creative sanctuary. Members of the cast and crew recently made a pilgrimage to Paisley Park, reinforcing their connection to Prince’s legacy and the city’s cultural landscape .

The show’s setting in Minneapolis is more than geographical; it reflects the city’s ongoing impact on music and LGBTQ+ communities. Prince’s music and persona challenged conventional notions of gender and sexuality, providing validation and inspiration for LGBTQ+ fans worldwide. By premiering in the city that shaped Prince’s identity, the production underscores the importance of authentic representation and community engagement.

After its extended Minneapolis engagement, ‘Purple Rain: The Musical’ will continue its journey to Broadway. The move to New York represents not only a celebration of Prince’s artistry but also a testament to the enduring relevance of his story. The production is expected to attract diverse audiences, including those who see their own stories reflected in the narrative’s themes of resilience, self-discovery, and love.

Producer Orin Wolf and Hennepin Arts have emphasized the importance of accessibility and authenticity in ticket sales, urging buyers to use authorized vendors to avoid counterfeit tickets and ensure the best experience .

Prince was known for defying labels and pushing boundaries — both musically and culturally. His fearless embrace of fluidity in style and self-expression found resonance in LGBTQ+ communities, providing a beacon for those seeking affirmation and visibility. The stage adaptation, guided by a creative team committed to inclusivity, aims to honor this aspect of Prince’s legacy.

Choreographer Ebony Williams, celebrated for her work in both contemporary dance and commercial performance, brings an energetic and inclusive vision to the show’s movement vocabulary. Music supervisor Jason Michael Webb, whose previous work includes Tony-winning productions, ensures that Prince’s music is honored with both reverence and innovation .

The production’s casting and creative decisions are informed by a commitment to diversity and representation, reflecting Prince’s own ethos of challenging norms and celebrating individuality. With its Minneapolis debut, ‘Purple Rain: The Musical’ aims to foster a welcoming environment for all attendees, including LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, ensuring that Prince’s message of self-love and acceptance continues to resonate.

Tickets for the additional week of performances will be available through HennepinArts.org and Ticketmaster, with organizers stressing the importance of purchasing through official channels to avoid counterfeit tickets . The engagement is part of the Bank of America Broadway on Hennepin series, further anchoring the production in Minneapolis’s storied arts community.

Community outreach efforts, including educational programming and partnerships with local organizations, are being planned to ensure that the production’s impact extends beyond the stage. These initiatives will focus on supporting young artists, fostering dialogue about Prince’s legacy, and celebrating the city’s unique role in shaping American music and culture.

As Minneapolis prepares to welcome the world premiere of ‘Purple Rain: The Musical,’ excitement continues to build — not only among Prince fans but also within the broader arts and LGBTQ+ communities. The production stands as a testament to Prince’s transformative influence and the power of live performance to inspire and unite.

With its roots firmly planted in the city that gave rise to a legend, ‘Purple Rain: The Musical’ is poised to carry Prince’s vision to new audiences on Broadway and beyond, reaffirming the enduring power of music, diversity, and self-expression.