2005 was an interesting year for me. I graduated high school and went on to college. It was a pretty transformative year. 2005 was also the year Sufjan Stevens released what is maybe one of the most exceptional pieces of work I've ever listened to in “Illinoise”. That was in the summer. By the end of that year that album was on repeat between myself and few friends I made in school. It didn't just help me get through dark times. It helped us all.

🎭 | There was a time in my life when I was more trusting of people. I learned rather early on in college that wasn't a good idea. I got taken advantage of. With that came very dark thoughts. There came times when not being here looked like the way to go. I fought those battles and won with a lot of therapy & music. To be frank, nowadays I'm fighting those battles again. Life since my mom died has been an uphill battle. I fight every second of the day just to see the light of tomorrow. How full circle is it that once again this album helps me but in musical form? 🎶

“Illinoise” is easily the best show I've seen this year. Give it everything it's up for! It's deeply moving and beautiful to look at. Telling a story through music and no dialogue is a bold but perfect choice. It allows for this album that so many love & treasure to grab you & uplift you in a different way. I was moved from scene one and could not stop crying. What a soul-shifting experience I had. It's heartbreaking but leaves you with hope. What a beautiful way to bring this album to life. The grief I’ve been feeling melted away for a moment and brought me back to 2005 Ally. She was broken, but if she got to the light. I can get back there too.

Please watch this celebration of dance, life, love & hope while you can at the St. James Theatre until August.

@illinoiseonstage

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