Illinoise Lyrics
- Prologue (or, A Conjuction of Drones...)
- Act I
- Three Stars (Concerning the UFO Sighting near Highland, Illinois)
- The Long Hike
- Come On! Feel the Illinoise!
- a story about Jacksonville
- a story about Zombies
- a story about John Wayne Gacy, Jr.
- a story about The Man of Metropolis
- Act II
- Decatur
- Chicago
- To the Workers of the Rock River Valley Region, I Have an Idea Concerning Your Predicament
- Casimir Pulaski Day
- Prairie Fire That Wanders About
- The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades Is Out to Get Us!
- In This Temple as in the Hearts of Man for Whom He Saved the Earth
- The Seer's Tower
- Act III
-
Chicago (reprise)
- The Tallest Man, the Broadest Shoulders
- Epilogue (or, Riffs and Variations...and Out of Egypt...)
Introduction to "Illinoise" 2023 Musical.
The 2023 musical "Illinoise" offers a fresh interpretation of Sufjan Stevens' acclaimed album "Illinois." Known for its lush orchestration and intricate storytelling, the original album is transformed into a vibrant stage production that captures the essence of the Midwest. This musical version revitalizes Stevens' folk-inspired tunes by incorporating theatrical elements to produce a one-of-a-kind and engaging experience.
Musical and Theatrical Elements.
"Illinoise" 2023 musical takes advantage of the original album's wide aural world. The show includes great pieces such as "Chicago," "John Wayne Gacy, Jr.," and "Casimir Pulaski Day," which have been recreated with complex choreography and powerful stage design. The orchestration, consisting of strings, brass, and woodwinds, stays true to Stevens' painstaking arrangements while adding theatrical flair. The musical's direction focuses on the album's themes of history, sorrow, and personal introspection, creating a very emotional journey for the audience.
Creation and Production Team.
A skilled crew created the 2023 adaptation of "Illinoise". Rachel Chavkin, best renowned for her work on "Hadestown," directs the musical, which demonstrates her ability to flawlessly weave narrative and song together. Sufjan Stevens' music and words retain their poetic beauty, and the adaptation adds additional orchestrations by Michael Starobin. Sonya Tayeh's choreography brings a strong physicality to the performance, boosting the tale through movement.
Story and Themes.
"Illinoise" delves into the rich tapestry of Illinois history and tradition, weaving together personal and historical narratives. The musical explores the state's prominent monuments, characters, and events, offering a reflective look at American identity and memory.
Impact and Reception.
Critics complimented the flawless combination of Stevens' music and theatrical elements, emphasizing the powerful performances and striking images. The heartbreaking portrayal of songs like "The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades Is Out to Get Us!" and "Concerning the UFO Sighting Near Highland, Illinois," which preserved their haunting beauty in a live context, especially impacted the audience.
Release date: 2023
Last Update:June, 05th 2024