THE HANGOVER REPORT – Sufjan Stevens and Justin Peck’s emotionally resonant dance theater piece ILLINOISE transfers to Broadway

The company of Justin Peck’s “Illinoise” at the St. James Theatre (photo by Liz Lauren).

A late entry in the very busy spring Broadway calendar — just making it into the 2023-2024 season just by the skin of its teeth — is Illinoise, Sufjan Stevens and Justin Peck’s emotionally and musically resonant dance theater piece that’s taken up a summer residence at the St. James Theatre. The work transfers from the massive Park Avenue Armory, where it enjoyed a successful sold out run. The production fits cozily at the St. James, where it maximizes the visceral impact of Peck’s soulful choreography and arguably further focuses the work’s loose narrative by playwright Jackie Sibblies Drury (the piece is based Sufjan Stevens’ iconic 2005 indie concept album Illinois). Also new to the production is Brandt Martinez, taking on the role previously played by Robbie Fairchild, who has departed the show to play the title role in the musical adaptation of the Oscar-winning film The Artist across the pond. I’m happy to report that Martinez is fantastic, bringing an affecting, grounded humanity to the elder statesman role that was previously missing. Otherwise, the production is as glorious as I remember; you can read my review of the Park Avenue run here.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

ILLINOISE
Broadway, Musical / Dance
St. James Theatre
1 hour, 30 minutes
Through August 10

Categories: Broadway, Theater

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