About

An important message from US Secretary of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona

The story behind our mission.

The musical 13 made history with the first full teenage cast in a Broadway production. Dear Evan Hansen was a musical that touched audiences and brought up important social and mental health issues.

Now a new musical, written and composed by 4-time Emmy nominee Jill Nesi, brings both concepts together. Stand UP & Speak OUT the musical features a young, local cast in a powerful show with an important message. The show tells the story of Stephanie, a girl who is relentlessly bullied at her high school. She is visited in her dream by her old friend Ian. Sadly, Ian also suffered from horrific bullying, with tragic consequences.

Stand UP & Speak OUT the musical debuted both school and public shows at The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in May and June of 2023 and made a repeat appearance on November 1, 2023.  After a pandemic inspired hiatus we were excited to return to the theater with this live production showcasing inspiring songs and dialogue addressing the topic of bullying and how kindness, empathy and acceptance can counteract poor behaviors.  The goal of this powerful musical showcase is to get both students of all ages and adults to recognize these situations and become "Up Standers" that STAND UP, SPEAK OUT, AND STOP BULLYING while creating a CHAIN REACTION of kindness!

Now more than ever we need to make the world a kinder, more empathetic and connected, safe place for our children.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about upcoming events and how your community can get involved.   

MUSIC COMPOSED BY: JILL NESI, MIKE SONG, JORDAN NESI

  Stand Up and Speak OUT  is partnered with The Connecticut Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity and Opportunity.  

A complimentary educational guide is also available to any school or organization upon request.  This easy to implement guide gives students opportunities to examine limiting and harmful behaviors.  The lessons reinforce and extend the learning with transformational exercises and uplifting strategies.

For more information on Stand UP and Speak OUT the musical or to learn how to receive a complimentary educational guide please contact us at susosing@gmail.com