Cleveland Play House will present the world premiere of Freak the Mighty, a new musical adapted from Rodman Philbrick’s young adult novel, running May 22 through June 21, 2026, at the Allen Theatre. The production is a co-presentation with Seattle Rep and is produced by Junkyard Dog Productions, the Tony Award-winning company behind Come From Away.

The musical features a book and lyrics by Anthony Drewe and music by Ryan Fielding Garrett. CPH Artistic Director Michael Barakiva directs, with choreography by David Connolly. The story follows Maxwell Kane and Kevin “Freak” Avery, two young outsiders who form an unlikely friendship and together take on the world as a pair they call “Freak the Mighty.” The production explores themes of resilience, community, and belonging.

Barakiva described the project as “an honor,” adding that the musical addresses “friendship and healing, which we all need now more than ever.” Managing Director Rachel L. Fink noted that the season brings together “Cleveland’s finest artists and artisans, alongside brilliant collaborators from beyond our city, creating theatre that’s urgent, fearless, and deeply rooted.” Following its Cleveland run, the production transfers to Seattle Rep. Tickets and information are available at clevelandplayhouse.com.

Source: Cleveland Play House