Direct from two critically acclaimed sold-out engagements, and nominated for the Tony, Drama League, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Best Musical, Illinoise has arrived on Broadway for a strictly limited engagement. “The majestic future of Broadway” (Los Angeles Times) is here.
Based on the landmark Sufjan Stevens album, Illinoise “springs to epic life onstage” (The Washington Post) in a “mysterious, deeply moving and unforgettable dance-musical” (The New York Times) directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Justin Peck.
Peck and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Jackie Sibblies Drury have crafted an original story that takes the audience on “an emotionally supercharged” (The Hollywood Reporter) journey. A group of friends gather around a campfire and tell tales of family, myth, and growing up, inspiring one young man to finally share his powerful story of first love. Through a unique blend of live music, dance, and theater, “Illinoise explores the hot zone between childhood and adulthood when emotions can be at their most overwhelming” (The New York Times).
"More akin to contemporary ballet than your typical Broadway show Illinoise mesmerizes and touches your heart with stellar performances by a cast of incredible performers. Super human Dancers, musicians and singers will conjure a night by the fire spuning tales inspired by Steven’s beautiful songs.
A truly original show, something new and different, Broadway purists will hate it, but I really enjoyed every second of it. "
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Xavier L from Mexico on Aug 9, 2024
"I have not witnessed anything more artistic on a stage ever. Beautifully sung, incredibly choreographed and AMAZINGLY danced. The entire cast is superb. Ricky Ubeda transcends. Story telling that moved me to tears several times. "
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Craig K from Hackensack on Aug 1, 2024
"Every moment was filled with fascinating music and movement. I loved it. Do not be fooled into thinking this is anything like a typical musical. Get there and enjoy yourself. "
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Thelma O from Mt Pleasant on Jul 31, 2024
"I loved everything about it. It was current, innovative, and creative. The dancers were phenomenal, and the musicians and vocals were mind-blowing."
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Robin S from New York on Jul 29, 2024
"Vey passionate musicians, dancers and choreographers. I cried and loved everything about it. "
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Fabian C from Riverside on Jul 26, 2024
"It took me a while to realize the story was being told through song lyrics and dance. The magnificent music and brilliant dancing told a beautiful story inclusive of love, tragedy, and friendship. Illinoise is definitely a show to see multiple times. I continue to think about this performance two weeks after seeing it, which is unlike any other show. "
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Eugene G from Allentown on Jul 25, 2024
"I enjoyed the show’s impeccable choreography, along with the 3 amazing singers and stellar back-up band/orchestra. I think it hits home more since this music is one of my favorite albums from the 2000s.
I highly recommend you see this show before it ends!"
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Broadway.com Customer on Jul 29, 2024
"I wasn’t sure if I would like this show but it was fantastic! I went with someone very familiar with the album. He thought the interpretations of the songs were spot on! The dancing was so emotional. I’ve never experienced modern/ interpretive dance that grabbed me like that. "
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Janet L from Paramus on Jul 25, 2024
"Was in NYC and wanted to catch a show with the family, found available seats for Illinoise, had no expectations as the show is new. The Performance was average, the theme not for me and not for family with younger children. "
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Broadway.com Customer on Jul 7, 2024
"Liked the singing but the lyrics??? No real story line, but I guess there were things that meant something to others, I'm not dumb (High grades, scholarships). Think it has a targeted audience that didn't include me or my wife. Not a wasted trip because I took my granddaughter."
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Broadway.com Customer on Jul 24, 2024
"I love Peck’s choreography but this was like visiting a gorilla cage. Only one dancer ever danced with a straight back. Unfortunate, because every now and then you could see how talented the dancers are.
Even the little bit of lyrics that exist were hard to understand with the tunnel effect on the mikes.
No costumes.
Great music. "
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shauna d from New York on Jul 31, 2024
"Controversial topics which caused uncontrollable situations: Clown serial killer , suicidal and gay lovers make the show dark and “heavy”. The production is minimal, not what you expect for a Broadway show, kind of middle school theater. Singers are very good, but just that. Very disappointing show overall."
