The beloved 1985 dance comedy Girls Just Want To Have Fun is heading to the stage, with its world premiere production set for November 2026 at Pittsburgh Playhouse.
The new musical, inspired by the cult-classic film that starred Sarah Jessica Parker and Helen Hunt, will run from Nov. 11-22 in the Playhouse’s PNC Theatre. Featuring a score packed with iconic 1980s hits, the production represents a unique collaboration between Point Park University, Lively McCabe Entertainment, and Primary Wave Music.
More than just a stage adaptation, the project is being hailed as a groundbreaking model for developing new musicals while giving students direct access to the professional theater-making process.
Under the innovative partnership, students from Point Park University’s Conservatory of Performing Arts will work alongside industry professionals throughout the show’s development. The semester-long process includes workshops, rehearsals, auditions, and a fully staged presentation before the creative team refines the musical for its official world premiere.
The story follows Janey Glenn, a talented high school dancer who struggles under the watchful eye of her strict father. When she befriends the outgoing and fearless Lynne, Janey steps outside her comfort zone and enters a televised dance competition, setting off a journey of friendship, self-discovery, and rebellion.
The original film became a fan favorite in the 1980s, thanks to its energetic dance sequences, memorable characters, and message about pursuing dreams despite obstacles.
For the stage version, television writer M Dickson and actor-singer-songwriter Lauren Marcus adapted the screenplay into a musical format. The score, arranged and orchestrated by acclaimed Broadway composer Georgia Stitt, features chart-topping songs made famous by artists including Whitney Houston, Olivia Newton-John, Huey Lewis and the News, and Culture Club. The musical also incorporates fan-favorite songs from the film, including “Dancing In Heaven” and “I Can Fly.”
Jennifer Werner, known for her work on The Book of Mormon, will direct and choreograph the production.
Lively McCabe Entertainment President Allison Bressi said the show required a new approach to development because dance plays such a central role in the storytelling. She praised Point Park University for embracing an innovative process that allows students to become active participants rather than observers.
University leaders say the partnership offers students an invaluable opportunity to gain professional experience before graduation.
“This is a transformative experience for our students,” said Kiesha Lalama, interim dean of Point Park University’s School of Theatre, Film and Animation.
Following its Pittsburgh debut, Girls Just Want To Have Fun is expected to continue its journey toward future productions, introducing a new generation of audiences to the film’s enduring spirit of music, dance, and youthful ambition.