‘How to Dance in Ohio’ to close on Broadway
The musical, inspired by a Peabody Award-winning documentary, made history by spotlighting autistic experiences and marking numerous Broadway debuts.
How to Dance in Ohio will close on Broadway, playing its final performance at the Belasco Theatre on February 11.
At the time of closing, the musical will have played 99 total performances.
How to Dance in Ohio is based on Alexandra Shiva’s Peabody Award-winning documentary, dramatizing the story of autistic young adults reaching social milestones while preparing for a formal dance at their counseling center. How to Dance in Ohio’s authentic casting and disability inclusion measures, such as the staffing of an autistic creative consultant and various accessibility resources for audiences, made the show historic for Broadway.
"Developing new work is always a risk, but producing this show was an endeavor we eagerly accepted,” the show's producers said in a statement. “We're incredibly proud that this original, joyful, and life-affirming musical has deeply moved countless audience members at the Belasco Theatre and beyond. Broadway has been changed forever because of How to Dance in Ohio and all the artists involved. We look forward to seeing its legacy continue in new and exciting ways."
The musical marked the Broadway debuts of director Sammi Cannold (who took over from Harold Prince following his death during the show's development), writers Rebekah Greer Melocik (book and lyrics) and Jacob Yandura (music), and choreographer Mayte Natalio.
Also making their debuts were the seven autistic actors playing the young adults: Desmond Luis Edwards as Remy, Amelia Fei (Yi-Hsuan Fei) as Caroline, Madison Kopec as Marideth, Liam Pearce as Drew, Imani Russell as Mel, Conor Tague as Tommy, and Ashley Wool as Jessica. They originated their roles in the show’s 2022 pre-Broadway run in Syracuse, New York.
The cast also includes Caesar Samayoa as psychologist Dr. Emilio Amigo, Cristina Sastre as Ashley Amigo, Haven Burton as Terry, and Darlesia Cearcy as Johanna.
Photo credit: The cast of How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway. (Photo by Curtis Brown)
Frequently asked questions
What is How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway about?
Dance and sing for the musical adaptation of Alexandra Shiva's Peabody Award-winning documentary of the same name. Go along with seven autistic adults as they prepare for a spring formal dance — and in the process, find new courage and confidence as they change up their everyday lives.
Where is How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway playing?
How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway is playing at Belasco Theatre. The theatre is located at 111 West 44th Street, New York, 10036.
How long is How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway?
The running time of How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway is 2h 20m (Incl. 15m Intermission)
What's the age requirement for How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway?
The recommended age for How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway is Recommended for 6+. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre..
How do you book tickets for How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway?
Book tickets for How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway on New York Theatre Guide.
What are the songs in How to Dance in Ohio?
Rebekah Greer Melocik and Jacob Yandura's original score for How to Dance in Ohio includes songs titled "Building Momentum," "So Much in Common," "Under Control," and "Getting Ready for the Dance."
Who wrote How to Dance in Ohio?
How to Dance in Ohio is written by Rebekah Greer Melocik (book and lyrics) and Jacob Yandura (music). They adapted the show from Alexandra Shiva's award-winning documentary of the same name, and Melocik and Yandura are making their Broadway debuts.
Who directed How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway?
Sammi Cannold directs How to Dance in Ohio on Broadway. She's directed acclaimed shows at renowned venues like Radio City Music Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center, and she now makes her Broadway debut. Alexandra Shiva directed the original documentary the musical is based on.
Is How to Dance in Ohio appropriate for kids?
How to Dance in Ohio is suitable for children 6 and older. Please note that children 4 and younger are not permitted in Broadway theatres.
Is How to Dance in Ohio good?
How to Dance in Ohio is an original new musical that thoughtfully explores the lives and coming of age of autistic people. The show is uplifting, inspiring, and celebratory.
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