Speak at Prime Stage Theatre

Prime Stage Theatre presents the world premiere of Speak, a stage adaptation of Laurie Halse Anderson's acclaimed 1999 young adult novel, adapted by Pittsburgh playwright Tammy Ryan and directed by Dana Hardy Bingham. The production follows Melinda, a 14-year-old navigating the aftermath of a devastating personal trauma, who finds her voice and emotional balance through art. Aylee Gardner leads a 12-member cast that includes Milena Casciani, Jacqueline Germer, Grace Gouwens, Jeff Johnston, Sadie Karashin, Eamonn McElfresh, Justin Mohr, Anne Marie Sweeney, Evan Vay, David Wang, and Zora Rose, with original music composed by Carla Bianco. The production runs May 1–10, 2026, at New Hazlett Theater on Pittsburgh's North Side, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Month.