Reducing the Stigma of Addiction
How do you change the way people think about addiction and reduce the stigma that prevents treatment? Lecture them? NO. Entertain them!
This is the concept behind the rock musical HIGHER returning to the TriState for three weekends beginning March 7, rewritten and re-imagined, hosted by the Contemporary Arts Center in downtown Cincinnati.
More than almost any other professional, those working in HR come face to face with the challenges of addiction and the devastation of stigma on a daily basis. After you see this show you’ll never think about addiction the same way again.
HIGHER shines its light on the emotional rollercoaster of addiction, told through a gripping love story.
ALT presents HIGHER and its message of hope from playwright Mark Levine with the mission to reduce stigma surrounding those impacted by the opioid crisis, which continues to affect millions of people from all walks of life in America, and especially the midwest.
THE STORY & 2025 PERFORMANCES:
During the performance, you’ll experience Benjamin's All-American beginnings, and see how life’s harsh realities align to derail his dreams. As he searches for meaning and belonging, his newfound love, Mara, offers a tempting and dangerous "solution."
Supported by a dynamic seven-person ensemble, watch Benjamin’s journey unfold, leading him to discover powerful ways to rise above his pain, and ultimately to make the hardest decision of his life. This compelling new work explores struggle, transformation, and hope in ways that every viewer will be moved by.
Reviews from the 2021 Premiere:
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