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HIGHER: Rock Musical


  • Contemporary Arts Center 44 East 6th Street Cincinnati, OH, 45202 United States (map)

“It is a must-see. It’s one of those things that you see and after you see it you go, ‘I didn’t realize that I needed that.’”

-Alton Fitzgerald White, critically acclaimed Broadway actor


THE STORY:

Love. War. Trauma. Drugs. Relief. Laughter. Love. Repeat.

Starting with Benjamin’s birth into a loving two-parent household, we see him grow up, take his first sips of beer with his cousin Kyle, strike out with the girl of his dreams, and join the Marines to find purpose.

Disaster strikes as both young men struggle to cope with physical and mental trauma. Seeking love and understanding, heroin fills the void and runs rampant. 

However, Benjamin finds a sense of stability in his newfound love, Mara. While the relationship seems to be perfect to Benjamin and Mara, it creates a terrible rift in Benjamin's family ultimately forcing Benjamin to make the hardest decision of his life. 

CREATORS:

Book, Music, and Lyrics by: Mark Levine

Arranged and Orchestrated by: Eric Knechtges

Developed by: American Legacy Theatre

FUNDING SUPPORTERS:

Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile Jr Foundation

WHY WE DO IT:

The opioid crisis affects millions of people from all walks of life in America, but especially the midwest. The crisis does not discriminate. Some people did not make it through, but for some there was a tale of hope. ALT presents one such story.

Directed by Matthew David Gellin this original rock musical is the first of its kind in American musical theatre. Never before has this topic been addressed in this way. ALT built this platform so we could bring people from all walks of life together to build a shared vocabulary and shared experience.

Our playwright, Mark Levine, said he created this musical for one simple reason: reduce stigma.

We at ALT have been asked for over two years to bring back this piece addressing this issue to light. We are thrilled to bring what you have asked. We are even more thrilled that ALT is setting the tone for Cincinnati to be a crucible for new work.


OUR COMMITMENT:

We do offer subsidized tickets if you receive SNAP benefits and our prices are detrimental for your family, or if you are a veteran/active military. Please reach out to us directly at 513-443-5429 (LGCY) so we ensure you have a part in this experience and your voice is heard.


ARRIVAL & PARKING:

There is ample parking in garages in and around the museum. There is also street parking, but please check the signage to ensure you are parked legally.

Upon entering the museum, you will take the elevator up to the 4th floor. Please note that the restrooms are on the Lower Level in the museum.  

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April 1

My Block, My City: Neighborhood of Cincinnati Theatre Festival