How to Dance in Ohio: An Insight into Autism

How to Dance in Ohio isn’t what you might think it is based on the title alone.  It is a new Broadway musical showing right now.  What makes this musical different from others is that it stars seven actors with Autism.

This Broadway show is based on a true story from an award-winning documentary that aired on HBO.  It is about a group of teenagers and young adults from Columbus, Ohio, who are all on the autism spectrum.  It follows them and their families as they prepare for their first spring formal dance.  The musical walks you through the challenges and difficulties that arise with growing up and being autistic.  The seven leading characters, with the help of their group counselor, learn how to connect with others and step outside their comfort zones to transition into adulthood.

Transitioning into adulthood is never easy, but when you are on the autism spectrum it adds another element of difficulty.  Why?  What is Autism?  According to autismspeaks.org, “Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.  Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges.  The ways in which people with autism learn, think, and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged.  Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently.” 

The musical provides a glimpse into the communication and social skills those with ASD struggle with daily.  For those who are not on the autism spectrum, it provides a greater understanding and awareness of ASD and empathy towards those who live with it.

Can’t get to Broadway to see the show?  No worries!  You can watch the HBO documentary on HBO max.  To learn more about the musical, actors, or watch clips of the musical, you can visit the How to Dance in Ohio website.