Back in 2005, Sufjan Stevens presented one of his best albums to date, now, Illinoise has been transformed into a dance musical that will be presented on Broadway.
The show will open at St. James Theatre on April 24, 2024, which will make it available for this year’s Tony awards. According to reports, the show is billed as a strictly limited engagement set to close on August 10. The show has already been presented at Fisher Center at Bard, Park Avenue Armory, and Chicago Shakespeare Theater.
The director, Justin Peck, who also choreographed the show and wrote it with Jackie Sibblies Drury, said in a press release, “This project has been ruminating in my mind for nearly 20 years, which makes this moment even more sublime.” He added, “Illinoise is a coming-of-age story that takes the audience on a journey through the American heartland—from campfire storytelling to the edges of the cosmos—all told through a unique blend of music, dance, and theater. On behalf of my team, we welcome this rare opportunity with full hearts.”
Stevens, of course, is credited with the music and lyrics, and the arrangements come courtesy of Timo Andres. The cast includes Yesenia Ayala, Kara Chan, Ben Cook, Gaby Diaz, and Jeanette Delgado, while the band and vocalists for the Broadway run will be announced soon.
You can get more info and buy tickets to Sufjan Stevens’ Illinoise Broadway dance musical here.
