In a grand finale to the 2024-25 Broadway season, “Dead Outlaw” emerges as a darkly exhilarating musical that breathes life into the stage. The funeral of Elmer McCurdy becomes a celebration filled with country and rock music, a stellar cast, and a tale that defies belief. Elmer’s story, rooted in American history, unfolds as a strange saga of greed, crime, and eccentricity. Hailing from Maine, McCurdy ventured out West to pursue a life of train robbery, only to meet his demise at the hands of a posse in Oklahoma at the age of 30.
His embalmed body, propped up with a rifle in hand, became a morbid attraction, passed from owner to owner as his identity faded away. Discovered in a dilapidated amusement ride in California in 1976, Elmer’s journey towards redemption began. “Dead Outlaw” captures the essence of Elmer’s unconventional narrative with an irreverent yet poignant book by Itamar Moses and a soulful soundtrack by David Yazbek and Erik Della Penna.
The musical delves into Elmer’s past, juxtaposing moments of hope and despair against a backdrop of murder ballads and Appalachian tunes. The production, reminiscent of a concept album, weaves together a tapestry of musical genres, from bluegrass to ’80s rock anthems, painting a vivid portrait of a flawed antihero’s life. Yazbek’s masterful score, reminiscent of his acclaimed work on “The Band’s Visit,” showcases his knack for blending wit and melody.
Directed by David Cromer, “Dead Outlaw” shines on the Broadway stage, drawing audiences into a world of gallows humor and introspection. The stellar cast, led by Andrew Durand, Julia Knitel, and Eddie Cooper, brings Elmer’s story to life with depth and nuance. From poignant solos to raucous ensemble numbers, the musical captures the essence of Americana with a modern twist.
Set against a backdrop of haunting visuals and evocative lighting, the production immerses viewers in Elmer’s tumultuous journey from obscurity to infamy. Each character, from the bandleader to the pathologist, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, exploring themes of redemption, legacy, and the human condition.
As “Dead Outlaw” takes center stage at the Longacre Theatre, it defies convention and challenges the status quo of Broadway. With a narrative that transcends time and genre, the musical offers a refreshing take on the American musical tradition. In a landscape dominated by commercial interests and star power, “Dead Outlaw” stands out as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.
🔗 Reddit Discussions
- What would they use as background music if the oot soundtrack never existed
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