A groundbreaking production just opened on Broadway – a story of seven autistic characters performed by seven talented actors who are themselves on the spectrum. However, critics were disappointed that this unconventional show didn’t push itself beyond normal conventions of musical theatre, instead relying on common troupes and never reaching the innovative heights it might have. However, the lovely music, sensitive staging, and phenomenal performances from these young stars come together to make for an encouraging and affecting production.
New York Times Review of How to Dance in Ohio
[T]he seven autistic characters in “How to Dance in Ohio” are presented, without condescension, as young adults a lot like most others, albeit with unusual gifts and challenges. That they are also played by autistic performers makes the feel-good show, which opened on Sunday at the Belasco Theater, more than a first: It’s a milestone. With all that groundbreaking, perhaps it is no surprise that the production is otherwise very conventional, sometimes dispiritingly so. … And though the result is sometimes uplifting, the uplift comes at the expense of the depth and complexity the show might have achieved were it not so intent on cheerful persuasion. … The young actors, all making their Broadway debuts, are highly skilled, sparkly cute and perfectly comfortable holding the stage. … Perhaps it’s enough that “How to Dance in Ohio” offers solace and encouragement in a mild, conventional package.
Deadline Review of How to Dance in Ohio
From the opening, pre-plot moment when the cast of seven young (mostly 20s) autistic persons takes the stage to directly introduce themselves and establish some background…their enthusiasm has our hearts. When they slip into their characters seconds later, their charming performances seal the deal: We want this show to soar. That it doesn’t is a disappointment softened only by the experience of seeing a group of Broadway newcomers get so thrillingly close to something like flight, and suspecting that this won’t be the last time they’ll have the opportunity.
TimeOut Review of How to Dance in Ohio
Since autism entails difficulty with verbal and physical communication, it may seem an unlikely match for the hyperexpressive style of musical theater. But How to Dance in Ohio turns this challenge into an opportunity; Rebekah Greer Melocik’s words and Jacob Yandura’s music provide access into inner worlds that their characters struggle to articulate outwardly. … Melocik and Yandura make the most of what theater is uniquely well-equipped to do: They turn a wall into a window.
New York Post Review of How to Dance in Ohio
“How To Dance In Ohio,” the new musical that opened Sunday night at the Belasco Theatre, marks a laudable first for Broadway: A show about autistic persons who are actually played by actors on the autism spectrum. That smart choice to bring some authenticity to a musical that otherwise leans hard on weepy Broadway cliches is far and away the best move its creators have made. They’ve cast an ideal core seven performers, who are all charming individually as well as when part of a tight ensemble. But as groundbreaking as “How To Dance” is as an idea, its execution across the board does not match its admirable intentions.
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