Written by: Caitlin McDonough 

If you’re new to Pittsburgh, or you just don’t get around the city very much, going to see plays and musicals can be a great way to see the Cultural District downtown. This season, these five shows are coming to town, and they are a great opportunity for date nights or for when you’re bored on a rainy March day. Student discounts on tickets are also available on trustarts.org using the code 1920CARLOW. 

5. American Son 

American Son is a new drama straight off Broadway that tells the story of Kendra and her teenage son Jamal, who is missing. This intense play presents current issues of race, power, gender, and law enforcement, and it is intended for mature audiences. Look into the Netflix film of the same name if you’re interested and head to the O’Reilly Theater from Mar. 5 through Apr. 5 to see the original show on stage. 

4. Sh!t-faced Shakespeare: Macbeth  

Come to the Byham Theater at 8 p.m. on Friday, Mar. 20, for a one night only event of boozed up cast members performing Shakespeare’s tragedy, Macbeth. The tragedy becomes a hilarious comedy for those who aren’t turned away by drinking, foul language, and whatever else might happen! 

3. Cats 

Want to compare the movie adaptation of Cats to the award-winning musical it’s based on? Want to see the musical before the movie? If so, catch Cats at the Benedum Center from Feb. 25 to Mar. 1! Although it’s one of the more expensive shows running this season, it doesn’t come to Pittsburgh too often. Now is your chance to see this beloved musical with its new lighting, choreography, and sound designs that the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust says makes “this production a new CATS for a new generation!” 

2. Tubman 

Tubman, a one-woman theatrical show running for one night – Friday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. at the August Wilson Cultural Center – reimagines Harriet Tubman as a young woman growing up in Harlem in the 21^st century. With a focus on the issues facing the African American youth of today, through the eyes of this leader in American history, this play looks at issues such as race, culture, and gender. 

1. Little Shop of Horrors 

There are still a couple more days to catch this famous horror comedy rock musical at the O’Reilly Theatre. According to the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Little Shop of Horrors has “a tender love story, along with rock, R&B, and 60s girl group music.” Closing on Sunday, Feb. 23, this beloved musical would make for a great date night!