The theatrical adaptation of Sufjan Stevens’ 2005 concept album Illinois is making a move to Broadway next month.
Illinoise features new arrangements of every song from Stevens's album, performed by an 11-piece band and trio of vocalists. The production made its world premiere last summer at Bard College's Fisher Center.
Musical arrangements come from composer and recurring Stevens collaborator Timo Andres, while the stage production is directed and choreographed by Justin Peck, who also choreographed Steven Spielberg's 2021 film West Side Story. Peck wrote the book for Illinoise alongside Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Jackie Sibblies Drury.
Illinoise's limited Broadway engagement begins April 24 at 2 p.m., running at the St. James Theatre through August 10. Notably, the show's Broadway opening comes a day before the eligibility cutoff for the Tony Awards, which annually recognize the best of Broadway theatre.
"This project has been ruminating in my mind for nearly 20 years, which makes this moment even more sublime," Peck shared in a statement [via Rolling Stone]. "We feel lucky that we get to continue sharing this unique show with future audiences on Broadway… On behalf of my team, we welcome this rare opportunity with full hearts."
Drury added [via Rolling Stone], "Supporting the craft of each of the artists involved in making up this show has been a joy and an inspiration. For me, the thing that makes Illinoise so special is how it allows incredible performers to come together with an audience and welcome emotion and connection with open arms. It is rare to have an experience, in a public space, that is moving on an elemental level."
Further ticketing details for the Broadway engagement of Illinoise can be found here.
Last year saw Stevens deliver 10th studio album Javelin. Named among Exclaim!'s Best Albums of 2023, it was dedicated to late partner Evans Richardson.
Revisit Exclaim!'s ranking of Sufjan Stevens's 20 Best Songs.
