Broadway musical How to Dance in Ohio made its world premiere at Syracuse Stage in 2022, featuring a cast of seven autistic actors who introduced the show and emphasized the uniqueness of each individual with autism. The story of the musical was inspired by a documentary of the same name, discovered by the creators Jacob Yandura and Rebekah Greer Melocik, both Ohio natives. The documentary showcased a life skills program for autistic youth in Columbus, leading Yandura and Melocik to craft their own story with a focus on human connection and defying stereotypes.
Director Sammi Cannold and the creative team were dedicated to casting autistic actors in autistic roles and creating a rehearsal space that catered to their unique needs. The character development in the musical aimed to be authentic and respectful to the autistic community, with characters like Marideth portrayed by Madison Kopec and Drew portrayed by Liam Pearce, who shared their experiences of feeling represented and celebrated on stage.
The show’s creators emphasized the importance of portraying the struggles, community, and joys within the autistic culture without falling into clichés or stereotypes. The authenticity of the characters and story resonated with autistic audience members, who expressed their appreciation for seeing themselves portrayed accurately on stage. How to Dance in Ohio aims to provide visibility and representation for the autistic community while celebrating their unique experiences and stories.
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