Conor Tague and Amelia Fei On HOW TO DANCE IN OHIO’s Broadway Journey

Broadway is about to be Building Momentum eight nights a week when How To Dance In Ohio officially opens this fall at the Belasco Theatre. Based on Alexandra Shiva’s HBO Documentary of the same name, the new musical marks the Broadway debut of its entire creative team including book and lyrics by Rebekah Greer Melocik, music by Jacob Yandura, music direction by Lily Ling, choreography by Mayte Natalio, and direction by Sammi Cannold. It’s one of the most highly anticipated new musicals this season, exploring what it means to belong, having the courage to put yourself out in the world, and the universal need to connect.

The heartfelt new show explores the story of seven autistic young adults as they prepare for a spring formal dance at their group counseling center in Columbus, Ohio. Reprising their roles from the world premiere engagement at Syracuse Stage last fall, the cast of seven autistic actors, all making their Broadway debuts, includes Desmond Edwards as Remy, Amelia Fei as Caroline, Madison Kopec as Marideth, Liam Pearce as Drew, Imani Russell as Mel, Conor Tague as Tommy, and Ashley Wool as Jessica. Also featured in the cast are Broadway veterans Haven Burton as Terry, Darlesia Cearcy as Johanna, Carlos L Encinias, Nick Gaswirth, Melina Kalomas, and Martín Solá. 

I spoke with Tague and Fei on the set of Theatrely’s Fall 2023 Preview about the importance of bringing this show to the stage.  

“We are all just so beyond excited. This moment is everything that we have worked for and now it is finally here,” said Tague. “It is such a special show, and we are thrilled that so many people are going to be able to see this story,” Fei told me. 

“The musical is so unique and special and diverse not only when it comes to gender, but also the autistic spectrum. We get to get up there and celebrate love together on stage every night, and that is just wonderful,” said Fei. “I have to mention that Rebekah and Jacob have written such a beautiful score, the songs will be stuck in your head, and in the best way possible,” Tague said.

The full creative team includes scenic designer Robert Brill, costume designer Sarafina Bush, lighting designer Bradley King and sound designer Connor Wang. 

How to Dance in Ohio begins performances on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 with an official opening night set for Sunday, December 10, 2023 at the Belasco Theatre on Broadway. 

For tickets and more information, click here.