Feeling the Illinoise at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Article by Josie Stahler
Oh what it must have been like in the city of Chicago the day Sufjan Stevens released his gloriously eccentric and folksy album Illinois back in 2005. Promoted as part of a determined project to write an album about each of the 50 United States (sure a joke, but I’m still waiting on the remaining 48 albums) Illinois has attracted everything from critical praise to movie soundtrack features. Now, nearly two decades into the future, the album has warranted a musical adaptation. Illinoise, “a new kind of musical” takes center stage at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.
This has been a highly anticipated show not just for the theater community, but indie fans everywhere. The announcement of a musical adaptation made waves when Pitchfork posted an article in March of last year. While many mainstream albums have been adapted for the stage, including Green Day’s American Idiot and Alanis Morisette’s Jagged Little Pill, Sufjan Stevens’ Illinois seemed like a massive concept to tackle. There was much speculation on just how Director Justin Peck would bring this off-kilter album to the stage.
Entering the Chicago Shakespeare Theater almost seemed like part of the pre-show immersion, looking out their windows to see the Chicago skyline. The pre-show music included a fitting mix of music from Neutral Milk Hotel, Pixies and more. On stage sat a massive billboard, and from the ceiling hung towering trees. Most excitedly was the band scattered on various levels of the stage, tuning their instruments before the show. It’s always nice to see the pit and remember who’s bringing the show to life alongside the actors.
Once the lights dimmed and the show began, it was clear this would be no ordinary musical. For one thing, the actors on stage never speak or sing. Instead, the music is led by vocalists Elijah Lyons, Shara Nova and WLUW Live Session Alum Tasha Viets-VanLear wearing moth wings. Hearing the music live for the first time was an experience in itself, but it was in tandem with the actors that the songs came to life. The musical is centered around a group of players who each share stories around a campfire, from historical messages to personal struggles. It was exciting to see how the actors utilized props, turning lamps into fire and picnic blankets into superhero capes.
The first act included an emotional interpretive number, “John Wayne Gacy, Jr.” to a versus tap dance for the track, “Jacksonville.” The choreography was an incredible cast feat, from Jeanette Delgado’s monstrous inspired movements for a number on zombies to Ben Cook’s effortless ballet-like dancing. Initially it was difficult to grasp the concept simply because with all new musicals, audiences are mostly going in with certain expectations. When should an audience clap? Is it appropriate to laugh at this beat? The moment it felt like it finally hit for audiences was when the standout track “Chicago” came roaring on stage.
“Chicago” has always been the big track for Sufjan’s album, a modern folk pop symphony. The musical adaptation continues this concept by making it a massive storytelling launchpad, complete with emotionally moving choreography and lighting that evokes memories lived by the main player, Henry (played by Ricky Ubeda). The song blends into others off the album, becoming a one singular epic of love and heartbreak.
By the end, the players are gathered around the campfire, holding each other dearly and showing gratitude for their shared stories. It was as if the audience had been seated right there along with them, taking in the stories like old folk tales. A standing ovation erupted from the audience as they cheered on the cast. Of course with this show’s successful use of choreography and atmosphere it’s sure to be a joy wherever it’s watched, but something about seeing it in the city of Chicago felt especially magical.
Illinoise is playing until February 18th at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, then will go on to the New York Park Avenue Armory in March. You can follow along with the show on Instagram.
Stream Sufjan Stevens' Illinois below!