A special Sufjan Stevens musical is heading to Broadway
A musical based on Sufjan Stevens’ 2005 record Illinois is set to open on Broadway this Spring. The show will premiere on April 24th at the St. James Theatre in New York after doing development runs around the US.
Illinois was the second in what Stevens declared his ‘fifty states series’, initially intending to create a concept album for each state. He only ever completed Michigan and Illinois, but both records were held up as heralding in a new bright, creative talent, merging the gentle indie-folk with a clear theatricality. Tracks like ‘The Black Hawk War’ or ‘One Last Whoo-Hoo For The Pullman’ already feel more like soundtrack numbers than songs, so this step to the stage feels sure to be seamless.
The album also features the hit track ‘Chicago’, which recently saw a boost in love as it was featured in the TV series, The Bear. It was also on the soundtrack for Little Miss Sunshine and The Politician.
The dance-musical, titled Illinoise, has been in development for a long time. “This project has been ruminating in my mind for nearly 20 years, which makes this moment even more sublime,” director and choreographer Justin Peck said. Along with Jackie Sibblies Drury, the pair crafted Illinoise from the album, adding in their own storytelling twists while taking notes from the songs.
“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,” Peck added. “On behalf of my team, we welcome this rare opportunity with full hearts.”
On the show’s website, it explains that Stevens’ music will be performed by an expansive 11-piece band, including three vocalists. Paired with impressionistic dance, the musical feels as concept-based as the album itself, seeming to make a match made in heaven. As the show opens just in time for the Tony Awards cut-off, it could be in the running to pick up a win.
The show was previously previewed at Fisher Center at Bard, Park Avenue Armory, and Chicago Shakespeare Theater. In New York, it will run for only 16 weeks until August 10th.
Stevens is credited for music and lyrics in the show, with arrangements by Timo Andres. Whether this musical might encourage the musician to return to his adventurous States project is unknown, but fans can only hope.
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