About a group of young people with autism getting ready for spring dancing, the inspiring new musical How to Dance in Ohio features seven autistic performers in central roles. It is slated to open on Broadway later this year.
The musical is based on a 2015 documentary by filmmaker Alexandra Shiva that follows participants in a social skills therapy program for people on the autism spectrum. The musical also features a therapy program, telling the story of young people who prepare to dance in hopes of helping them face the challenges they face in their social interactions.
The musical premiered last year at the Syracuse Stage in downtown New York. The production schedule was shortened due to the outbreak of the new coronavirus among the cast and staff.of review The Syracuse newspaper, Post-Standard, headlined the performance as “The Musical You’ll Talk About Forever” and described it as “exhilarating, groundbreaking and celebratory”.
Casting is not yet complete, but several actors are expected to join Desmond Edwards, Amelia Faye, Madison Kopech, Liam Pierce, Imani Russell, Connor Tagoo and Ashley Wool make their Broadway debuts. Haven Barton and Dallesia Searcy are also among the others on the bill so far.
“How to Dance in Ohio” features a book and lyrics by Rebecca Greer Melosic and music by Jacob Yandula. Directed by Sammy Cannold and choreographed by Mayte Natario. Renowned director and producer Hal Prince was initially involved in the project. He passed away in 2019.
This musical is produced by a company called P3 Productions, led by Ben Holtzman, Sammy Lopez and Fiona Hau Rudin. The capital will be up to $15.5 million, according to filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The show will begin previews on November 15th and is slated to open at the Belasco Theater on December 10th.
