The licensing rights to Jacob Yandura and Rebekah Greer Melocik’s musical “How to Dance in Ohio” have been acquired by Music Theatre International (MTI).
Based on a Peabody Award-winning documentary by Alexandra Shiva, “How to Dance in Ohio” follows a group of autistic young adults in Columbus, OH, as they prepare for their first formal dance — and their adulthood — through a series of group therapy sessions.
“‘How to Dance in Ohio’ is a particularly touching musical that we know will resonate with audiences around the country,” MTI president and CEO Drew Cohen said in a statement. “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’s fantastic score and Rebekah’s clever and heartfelt book and lyrics highlight the show’s important message and are filled with infectious positivity.”
“We are thrilled that the licensing of ‘How to Dance in Ohio’ will be available through Music Theatre International,” added Yandura and Melocik. “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.”
Following previews that began on Nov. 15, 2023, the musical opened on Dec. 10 at the Belasco Theatre. The Sammi Cannold-helmed production concluded its run on Feb. 11, 2024. The musical received a special 2024 Drama Desk Award for its authentic representation of neurodiversity onstage. The production recently announced a West End transfer, slated for 2025.
Licensing availability for “How to Dance in Ohio” will be announced.
Other recent acquisitions by MTI include the currently running “& Juliet” and the 2023 Best Musical Tony Award winner “Kimberly Akimbo,” as well as special school editions of “Beetlejuice” and “Once Upon a One More Time.”
