Illinoise: Sufjan Stevens’ Folk-Rock Musical Opens on Broadway

Sufjan Stevens’ acclaimed 2005 album “Illinois” has inspired a new musical sensation, Illinoise, captivating audiences with its unique blend of folk-rock and dance. The musical, featuring music and lyrics by Stevens and an original story by Justin Peck and Jackie Sibblies Drury, explores themes of love, loss, and identity through the lens of a campfire gathering where friends share poignant stories from their pasts.

“Illinoise explores the hot zone between childhood and adulthood when emotions can be at their most overwhelming” (The New York Times)

Illinoise first premiered at Bard College’s Fisher Center during the Bard SummerScape festival in June 2023. Directed and choreographed by Justin Peck, the show ran until early July, setting the stage for subsequent performances in Chicago and New York.

In early 2024, the production moved to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater for a brief run from January 28 to February 18. Following its Chicago success, Illinoise made its Off-Broadway debut at the Park Avenue Armory on March 2, closing on March 26. Each iteration of the show continued to feature Peck’s direction and choreography, along with Timo Andres’ orchestrations.

The musical finally arrived on Broadway at the St. James Theatre on April 24, 2024. Scheduled for a limited engagement through August 10, it has already garnered positive reviews and four Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical. The Broadway production boasts a creative team including set designer Adam Rigg, lighting designer Brandon Stirling Baker, and costume designers Reid Bartelme and Harriet Jung.

The cast features standout performances by Ricky Ubeda as Henry and Jeanette Delgado as Jo Daviess, among others. Each character is named after a county in Illinois, reflecting the state’s rich cultural tapestry.

Adding to the excitement, the Illinoise cast recording is set for release next month, promising to bring the musical’s haunting and heart-quickening songs to a wider audience. Fans can look forward to reliving the magic of Stevens’ compositions, now reimagined through the storytelling and choreography of this groundbreaking show.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Stevens’ work or new to his music, Illinoise offers a moving theatrical experience that beautifully intertwines song, dance, and narrative.

Read more on the official website.