HIGHER, an original rock musical with book, music, and lyrics by Mark Levine, arranged by Eric Knechtges, and developed by American Legacy Theatre, returns for the first time since its world premiere in 2021. 

Newly rewritten. Ohio premiere. Taking place at the Contemporary Arts Center not on their stage, but brought to life within their gallery spaces. Reimagined in a way you need to see it to believe it!

THE STORY:

HIGHER is an emotional rollercoaster about addiction, told through a gripping love story between Benjamin and Mara; whose family does not approve. 

We begin with Benjamin's perfect All-American beginnings, only for life’s harsh realities to derail his dreams. As he searches for meaning and belonging, Mara offers a tempting, dangerous "solution." 

Supported by a dynamic seven-person ensemble, Benjamin’s journey unfolds, leading him to break free from Mara’s grip and ultimately discover a powerful new way to rise above it all. HIGHER is a compelling exploration of struggle, transformation, and hope.

THE WHY:

The opioid crisis affects millions of people from all walks of life in America, but especially the midwest. The crisis does not discriminate. Our playwright, Mark Levine, said he created this musical for one simple reason: reduce stigma. ALT was urged to bring a piece addressing this issue to light. ALT built this platform so we could bring people from all walks of life together to build a shared vocabulary and shared experience.

PRAISE FOR HIGHER:

“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 

“HIGHER will appeal to the adventuresome theatre-goer wanting to see new work, as well as those whose lives have been touched by addiction.”

-Alan Jozwiak, League of Cincinnati Theatres

"It“s at times humorous, dramatic, grim, and uplifting. But mostly it is a show unlike any you've ever seen. It's ambitious, compelling, and thought-provoking."

- Shawn Maus, League of Cincinnati Theatres

HIGHER is a piece developed out of Playwrights for Change - a program supported in part by the Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Foundation. ALT receives additional support from the Ohio Arts Council and the generosity of community contributions to the annual ArtsWave campaign, the region’s primary source for arts funding.

As part of our partnership with the Contemporary Arts Center, some audience information will be shared with their organization.

DISCLAIMER:

Due to intense subject matter recommended for ages 12 and up with parental guidance.