Musical based on Sufjan Stevens' Illinois album is headed to Broadway

19 March 2024, 15:45 | Written by Tyler Damara Kelly

(News)

(Sufjan Stevens)

Justin Peck’s dance-led adaptation of Sufjan Stevens’ 2005 album Illinois will be heading to Broadway later this year.

“This project has been ruminating in my mind for nearly 20 years, which makes this moment even more sublime," said director, Justin Peck, who also wrote and choreographed the musical alongside Jackie Sibblies Drury. “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.”

OH SHIT the news is coming fast and hard this morning! The Sufjan ballet / musical ILLINOISE is transfering from its limited run at @ParkAveArmory to BROADWAY!!! It's doing 16 weeks starting April 24th! https://t.co/bpmlYSesmO pic.twitter.com/18b7eEWKcu
— Jason Adams (@JAMNPP) March 19, 2024

Frequent Stevens collaborator Timo Andres will serve as the composer for Illinoise, which is said to have no dialogue and is instead performed by an 11-member band and three vocalists. The musical is transferring to Broadway after two sold-out productions at the Park Avenue Armory and Chicago Shakespeare Theatre.

The show will open at St. James Theatre on 24 April and run until 10 August. For more information, visit illinoiseonstage.com.