Jordan Fisher has been cast in the title role of the Broadway adaptation of Purple Rain. The actor and singer will portray the character known as 'The Kid,' a part originally played by Prince in the 1984 film. Fisher is a well established presence on the New York stage, having previously starred in productions such as Moulin Rouge!, Hadestown, and Dear Evan Hansen.
The musical is scheduled to begin previews at the Majestic Theatre on March 12, 2027. Following the preview period, the show will officially open on April 12. While Fisher will lead the production, an alternate performer has been selected to play the role on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday matinees. The identity of this alternate cast member will be announced in the future, and additional casting details are expected to be revealed at a later date.
The stage production is built around the music of Prince, featuring iconic tracks such as 'When Doves Cry,' 'I Would Die 4 U,' 'Take Me with You,' and the title song 'Purple Rain.' The narrative follows a young performer who attempts to lead his band to fame. Throughout the story, the protagonist must navigate a turbulent personal past, contend with a rival singer, and explore a developing romantic interest.
Fisher brings a diverse body of work to this role beyond his Broadway credits. He has appeared in various screen projects, including the Netflix series Hello, Goodbye, and Everything in Between, and the film To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You. He also starred in the television movies Work It, Rent: Live!, and Grease: Live!, as well as the Disney/Pixar animated feature Turning Red. His previous stage roles include Laurens and Philip in Hamilton and Anthony in the recent revival of Sweeney Todd.
Director Saheem Ali expressed strong confidence in Fisher's ability to embody the character. Ali noted that watching Fisher inhabit the role revealed a deep fire beneath the surface, characterized by swagger, vulnerability, and a restless creative spirit. The director stated that Fisher brings an infectious generosity to the performance that elevates the surrounding cast. Ali described Fisher's interpretation as raw, surprising, and deeply human, and expressed anticipation for the Broadway audience's experience.
The musical made its world premiere at the State Theater in Minneapolis in the fall of 2025. Since that initial run, the production has undergone significant changes to its creative team. Saheem Ali, who previously directed Buena Vista Social Club, has taken over as director. The book for the musical has been written by Peter Duchan, who is known for his work on Dogfight.
Ebony Williams continues to serve as the choreographer for the production. She is known for her work on Sneakerella and for providing additional choreography for the Renaissance World Tour. During the Minneapolis premiere, Kris Kollins, a singer-songwriter based in Washington, D.C., portrayed the role of The Kid.
The production is supported by music advisers Bobby Z and Morris Hayes, both of whom worked directly with Prince. Orin Wolf, who produced Buena Vista Social Club, is leading the production of the Broadway musical.
The casting announcement marks a significant step for the adaptation as it moves from its Minneapolis origins to the New York stage. The combination of Fisher's experience and the revamped creative team aims to bring a fresh perspective to the classic story and music.
