WALNUT CREEK, CA — The Lesher Center for the Arts will crank up the volume this spring when Jagged Little Pill storms onto the stage for its East Bay premiere, bringing Alanis Morissette’s blistering anthems and emotionally charged storytelling to local audiences for a month-long run.
Running May 31 to June 28, the musical translates Morissette’s groundbreaking album into a portrait of an American family unraveling beneath the polished image of suburban perfection.
At the center of the story stands Mary Jane Healy, a mother struggling to hold together a family strained by addiction, hidden trauma, identity conflicts, and long-buried resentment.
Directed by Matt M. Morrow with choreography by Adin Walker and musical direction by Eryn Allen, the production blends rock performances with intimate family drama, pushing audiences through moments of heartbreak, confrontation, and dark humor.
The musical features music by Alanis Morissette and Glen Ballard, with a book by Academy Award-winning writer Diablo Cody.
Critics have praised the show for pairing Morissette’s emotionally raw songs with a modern multigenerational story that tackles contemporary social pressures head-on.
The production includes many of Morissette’s best-known tracks, transforming songs that defined the 1990s into emotionally charged ensemble performances built for the stage.
Lesher Center organizers say the musical will close the spring 2026 season with one of the boldest productions the venue has mounted in recent years — one designed to leave audiences cheering, reflecting, and singing long after the curtain falls.
The production will also feature several audience events throughout the run. A Director Chat with director and Center REP Artistic Director Matt M. Morrow is scheduled June 5 before the performance, giving theatergoers a chance to hear how the production came together and what drives its creative vision.
A Cast Chat on June 10 will bring performers and Center REP artistic leaders together for a post-show discussion about the musical’s themes, performances, and emotional impact.
The theater will also host a Pride Mixer on June 24 before the show for drinks and conversation.
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Walnut Creek, CA Patch
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