'How to Dance in Ohio' is making Broadway history. Here's why

When you think of Ohio, what comes to mind? Maybe college football? The Midwest? Cleveland and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

That's about to change.

"How to Dance in Ohio," the uplifting new musical at the Belasco Theatre, touches your heart from beginning to end. This story follows seven autistic teens and young adults preparing for a spring formal dance while facing life's challenges in and out of a counseling center in Columbus, Ohio.

In a history-making first, seven actors on the spectrum play the autistic characters — and all are making their Broadway debuts.

This magnificent seven all have memorable moments: The charismatic Liam Pearce is Drew, a leader who appears to be heading to the University of Michigan; Desmond Luis Edwards grabs attention as Remy, the soon-to-be-fabulous cosplay star; Madison Kopec is brilliant as Marideth, a loner who is obsessed with facts; Conor Tague is Tommy, who can't wait to drive and has all-American boy charm; the impressive Imani Russell is Mel, who has to deal with a boss who does not appreciate their talents; and Amelia Fei and Ashley Wool are good friends Caroline and Jessica, who talk a lot about boys and can't wait to double date.

Along the way, they each learn something: how to handle stress, how to connect, how to take a chance.

How to become independent, how to be a friend. How to love.

And yes, how to dance.

This magic on stage, inspired by Alexandra Shiva’s Peabody Award-winning HBO documentary of the same name, is directed with joy and passion by Sammi Cannold. Book and lyrics are by Rebekah Greer Melocik, with music by Jacob Yandura.

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While the songs are decent, subplots sometimes get in the way and take the action away from the leads. It's not distracting, just frustrating.

The supporting cast is solid. Cesar Samayoa is Dr. Amigo, who leads the group and seems to be making a real difference in their lives. Cristina Sastre plays Amigo's daughter Ashley, who loves working at the center even if she always doesn't see eye to eye with her dad.

Of the parents, Darlesia Cearcy stands out as Caroline's mom. In triple duty, Carlos L. Encinias portrays Drew's dad; a clueless blogger who wants to do a story on the upcoming dance; and Mel's far-from-sympathetic supervisor.

Choreography by Mayte Natalio is simple, but energetic and sophisticated. Three-time Tony nominee Robert Brill creates a captivating grid-like set of letters. Costumes by Sarafina Bush are fun and inviting. Bradley King contributes significantly with his lighting design.

At a recent performance, a woman with a 20-something daughter on the spectrum was crying throughout the show.

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Mostly they were happy tears. It was overwhelming to see her daughter's experiences come to life on stage. Combined with the acting, the music and the set, it was a night she will treasure. It made such an impact that she immediately bought tickets for her daughter, who will be going with her younger sister.

It will not be surprising if, as Drew sings in Act II, the show will continue "Building Momentum."

Ohio State, take a back seat to this "OH-IO."

Go: "How to Dance in Ohio," Belasco Theatre, 111 W. 44th St., $48 to $518; 212-239-6200, howtodanceinohiomusical.com.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: How to Dance in Ohio Broadway review: Cast shines, makes history