The new Broadway musical How to Dance in Ohio will kick off its run this November. The musical, based on the HBO documentary of the same name, features autistic, neurodivergent, and non-autistic actors who identify as neurotypical.
Exhilarating, Groundbreaking, and Celebratory Musical Based on a Real-Life Story
Described by the Post-Standard as “exhilarating, groundbreaking, and celebratory,” the musical follows seven autistic young adults at a counseling center in Columbus, Ohio. They are about to embark on the next phase of their lives, facing fears by breaking routines and experiencing love, excitement, stress, and independence. The first big step is preparing for a spring formal dance.
An Inclusive Broadway Production
Most importantly, the musical has been cast authentically. This means the autistic characters will be performed by actors who identify as autistic, including the understudies as well.
This inclusion principle is not just for the stage. Autistic professionals are also working behind the scenes, including the associate producer and assistant music director.
Practicing inclusion began at the project’s onset. The team hired an autistic creative consultant to get feedback on both the script and character development. They completed the CO/LAB Theater Group’s Sharing the Stage workshop, led by neurodiverse facilitators. Through the workshop, the musical team was able to get a better understanding of developmental disabilities.
Additional Considerations for the Audience
The steps to create an inclusive musical didn’t just stop at the performance itself. The production and creative team also worked to create a sensory-friendly experience for the audience.
To meet the needs of audience members with developmental disabilities, autism, and other forms of neurodiversity, they are offering cool-down spaces. In addition to these sensory-friendly break areas, audience members can obtain advance information about the theater experience, including a performance sensitivity list, so they know what to expect before they arrive.
Interested in Seeing This Groundbreaking Musical?
You can purchase tickets online! The first preview date is November 15, 2023, with an opening date of December 10, 2023. Tickets are on sale through June 16, 2024.
Photo credit: www.howtodanceinohiomusical.com
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