Pittsburgh residents now have a unique cultural offering on their doorstep. The Confluence Theater—born from the recent merger of Pittsburgh Public Theater and the Pittsburgh CLO—has added the original production “How Shakespeare Saved My Life” to its schedule, running through November 22 at the O’Reilly Theater in the Cultural District.
Local creator, national acclaim
The piece was created by Pittsburgh native Jacob Ming‑Trent, who blends the timeless works of Shakespeare with contemporary poetry, hip‑hop beats, storytelling and live music. Ming‑Trent says the show chronicles his own transformation after discovering the Bard, illustrating how classic literature can speak to modern lives.
A successful run now coming home
“How Shakespeare Saved My Life” premiered in New York at the Folger Theater, where it earned strong reviews and sold‑out performances. The production is also slated for a future run at the Public Theater in New York, underscoring its broad appeal. Now, fourteen performances are scheduled at Pittsburgh’s O’Reilly Theater, giving local audiences the chance to experience the acclaimed work without traveling out of state.
What to expect
Attendees can look forward to a dynamic blend of Shakespearean excerpts, original rap verses, spoken‑word poetry and a live musical ensemble. The show is designed to be family‑friendly while still offering depth for adult viewers, aligning with the city’s tradition of accessible, high‑quality arts programming.
Tickets and information
Tickets are available online through the Confluence Theater’s website, confluencetheater.org. Seating is limited, and the theater encourages early purchase to secure preferred dates. The production runs nightly, with a few matinee performances, making it convenient for school groups, families and working adults alike.
Supporting Pittsburgh’s cultural renaissance
The staging of this original work reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and expanding the arts scene. By showcasing a Pittsburgh‑born creator alongside a celebrated national venue, the Confluence Theater reinforces the city’s reputation as a hub for innovative, faith‑affirming and family‑oriented entertainment.
Local arts supporters are invited to attend, share the experience with friends and family, and help sustain the vibrant cultural ecosystem that makes Pittsburgh a thriving community for creators and audiences alike.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
