Broadway-Aimed ‘Purple Rain’ Musical Announces Groundbreaking Cast, Celebrates LGBTQ+ Legacy

The stage is set in Minneapolis for the world premiere of "Purple Rain", the Broadway-bound musical adaptation of Prince’s legendary 1984 film and album. Producers announced that Kris Kollins will take on the role of The Kid and Rachel Webb will portray Apollonia in a casting decision that’s already resonating with fans and advocates for greater diversity and LGBTQ+ visibility in the arts .

The new production, which will run at the historic State Theatre in Minneapolis from October 16 to November 16, is helmed by director Lileana Blain-Cruz, with a book by Pulitzer Prize finalist Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and choreography by Ebony Williams . Music supervision, arrangements, and orchestrations are provided by Tony Award winner Jason Michael Webb, while longtime Prince collaborators Bobby Z and Morris Hayes serve as music advisors, underscoring the production’s commitment to honoring the artist’s musical legacy .

Kris Kollins, making his professional stage debut as The Kid, was discovered on social media and has garnered attention for his soulful voice and original music. Kollins’s recent singles have featured in LGBTQ+ inclusive media, such as Paramount+’s "Noah’s Arc: The Movie", a property celebrated for its positive representation of queer Black lives . Rachel Webb, stepping into the role of Apollonia, previously starred as Juliet in the North American tour of "& Juliet", after serving as an understudy for the role on Broadway .

Prince’s original "Purple Rain" film and album have long been embraced by LGBTQ+ audiences for their themes of self-expression, resilience, and boundary-breaking artistry. The musical’s creative team and cast reflect a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Kollins, a queer Black artist, brings authentic representation to the role of The Kid, a character whose journey of self-discovery and acceptance mirrors the experiences of many LGBTQ+ people .

Jacobs-Jenkins, whose works often center on race, sexuality, and social justice, said of Kollins’s casting, “From our first encounter with his original music and socials, we were absolutely floored by Kris’s gifts—his musicianship, his voice, his magnetism. Kris is the real deal, and we can’t wait for audiences to see him bring The Kid to life” .

Webb’s casting as Apollonia also signals a move toward greater representation for women of color and LGBTQ+ performers in leading theatrical roles, continuing Broadway’s recent trend of inclusivity.

The production boasts an impressive roster of creatives, including scenic designer David Zinn, costume designer Montana Levi Blanco, and sound designer Palmer Hefferan—all known for their innovative, inclusive work. The addition of choreographer Ebony Williams, who has previously collaborated on projects with strong LGBTQ+ themes, further strengthens the show’s commitment to authenticity and representation .

Music advisors Bobby Z and Morris Hayes, longtime collaborators of Prince, ensure that the stage adaptation remains true to the spirit and impact of the original. Their presence is especially meaningful for LGBTQ+ audiences, many of whom see Prince as an icon of gender fluidity, sexual liberation, and boundary-defying self-expression .

The Minneapolis premiere is expected to draw national attention, not only for its star power and creative pedigree but also for its significance as a celebration of Prince’s legacy in his hometown. Local LGBTQ+ organizations have expressed excitement about the musical’s potential to foster greater visibility and dialogue around issues of identity and inclusion, both on and off stage.

In addition to the performances, Minneapolis will host several events celebrating Prince’s legacy, including Paisley Park tours and “Purple Path” experiences organized by Meet Minneapolis, further highlighting the intersection of queer history and pop culture .

Following its Minneapolis run, "Purple Rain" is expected to move to Broadway, where its impact could be even greater. As theatergoers and LGBTQ+ audiences await its arrival, the production stands as a testament to the power of inclusive storytelling and the enduring influence of Prince’s artistry.

Tickets for the Minneapolis premiere are now available through Hennepin Arts, with accessibility accommodations and community outreach programs planned to ensure all fans can experience this landmark event .