Last month, the YMCA of Greater Cleveland’s Y-Haven program proudly presented its 27th annual Steps & Stages performance in partnership with Cleveland Public Theatre, and once again, it left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
Written and performed by Y-Haven residents, this year’s production delivered a raw and compelling story centered on how life can unravel under pressure. The play followed one man’s journey as mounting stress, fractured relationships and difficult choices begin to compound, blurring the line between victim and villain. With moments of humor, honesty and intensity, the performance explored how quickly life can become unmanageable and how hope and redemption can still emerge, even in the aftermath.
Under the expert guidance of Cleveland Public Theatre’s creative team, 14 residents took the stage and brought this powerful narrative to life. Beyond the performance itself, the process of developing the script, rehearsing and performing provided participants with an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen communication skills and express their lived experiences in a meaningful way.
Steps & Stages is more than a play. It is a reflection of the journeys taking place every day at Y-Haven, where individuals are working to overcome addiction, rebuild their lives and pursue economic mobility. The production serves as both a creative outlet and a milestone in that journey, reinforcing the power of storytelling, community and second chances.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the residents who shared their stories with such courage, as well as to the team at Cleveland Public Theatre for their continued partnership and mentorship.
We are also grateful to our generous 2026 sponsors who made this production possible: psybill, Cuyahoga Arts & Culture, Anthem, Forest Hill Church, studioTECHNE architects, Tom and Beth Zych, Jeff and Anne Smith, Fred DeGrandis and Rosemary Creeden and Tom Otto.
As we reflect on another remarkable year of Steps & Stages, we are reminded that recovery is not a single moment, but a journey—one that is strengthened through support, creativity and belonging. We look forward to continuing this tradition and sharing more stories of transformation in the years ahead.
Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and contributed to making this night a success!
You can still contribute to Y-Haven by visiting this page.