Broadway's 'Dead Outlaw' Bridging Comedy and Tragedy of True Crime
The new musical 'Dead Outlaw' tells the bizarre life story of Elmer McCurdy, an inept train robber whose preserved body became a strange attraction.
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Overview
'Dead Outlaw,' directed by David Cromer, is a Broadway musical detailing the quirky life and afterlife of Elmer McCurdy, a hapless train robber. Featuring a mix of raucous songs and poignant moments, the show explores themes of identity, death, and the commodification of corpses through dark humor and catchy tunes. The production shines with standout performances, particularly by Andrew Durand as McCurdy, and a lively score by David Yazbek and Erik Della Penna, making it a unique addition to the season's lineup.
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Analysis
- The musical 'Dead Outlaw' offers a darkly humorous look at the life and afterlife of Elmer McCurdy, whose preserved body became a sideshow attraction after his death.
- The score blends various musical styles, including Americana and rock, showcasing both upbeat and poignant moments that reflect on the themes of mortality and legacy.
- Critics praise 'Dead Outlaw' for its imaginative storytelling, strong performances, particularly by Andrew Durand, and its ability to blend comedy with deeper reflections on death.
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FAQ
The musical features a book by Itamar Moses and music/lyrics by David Yazbek and Erik Della Penna, the team behind 'The Band’s Visit'.
The show examines identity, mortality, the commodification of human remains, and the American obsession with spectacle, particularly through McCurdy's posthumous exploitation as a carnival attraction.
Durand portrays Elmer McCurdy’s journey from living outlaw to preserved corpse, anchoring the dark comedy with a tragicomic physicality that highlights the character’s futility and posthumous fame.
The show opened in April 2025 at Broadway's Longacre Theatre, with performances currently running Tuesday-Sunday.
As of April 2025, it has received Drama League nominations for Outstanding Production of a Musical and Distinguished Performance.
History
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