The world of music theater is abuzz with the addition of a remarkable neurodivergent coming-of-age musical, "How to Dance in Ohio," to the Music Theater International licensing catalogue. This production, which had a brief yet significant Broadway run last season, holds a special place in the hearts of theater enthusiasts.

A Broadway Milestone for Neurodivergent Representation

How the Musical Came to Be

The story of "How to Dance in Ohio" began with Alexandra Shiva's 2015 HBO documentary, which served as the foundation for the book and lyrics by Rebekah Greer Melocik. Jacob Yandura composed the captivating music that brings the story to life. The musical premiered at Syracuse Stage in 2022 and soon made its way to Broadway the following year, captivating audiences with its powerful message.This production was a major milestone for neurodivergent representation on Broadway. Seven openly autistic actors took on the roles of the autistic characters, emphasizing the importance of "nothing about us without us." It showed the world that neurodivergent voices can shine on the biggest stage.

The Impact of the Broadway Run

The 72-performance run on Broadway was a testament to the show's appeal. It not only entertained audiences but also sparked important conversations about autism and representation. The musical provided a platform for autistic and neurodivergent artists to showcase their talents and share their stories.MTI President and CEO Drew Cohen recognizes the show's significance, stating, "How to Dance in Ohio is a particularly touching musical that we know will resonate with audiences around the country. This musical provides an opportunity to spotlight and celebrate people's differences—the characters' and the actors'—in ways that audiences can relate to and enjoy."Jacob Yandura and Rebekah Greer Melocik express their excitement in a joint statement, saying, "We are thrilled that the licensing of How to Dance in Ohio will be available through Music Theatre International. The Broadway production marked so many firsts in representation and accessibility, and we know the show will have a long and promising future at MTI. To hand over this joyful story to other communities and artists, especially autistic and neurodivergent ones, is a dream come true."

What the Future Holds

Currently, the title is restricted for new licenses, but theaters interested in presenting the musical can sign up for further updates at MTIShows.com. This opens up exciting possibilities for more communities to experience the magic of "How to Dance in Ohio."As the musical continues to make waves, it serves as a reminder of the power of theater to bring people together and celebrate diversity. It shows that with the right story and the right cast, neurodivergent voices can be heard and cherished on stage.