Award-Winning ‘Dead Outlaw’ Musical Begins Broadway Rehearsals Ahead of April 2025 Opening

NEW YORK – Rehearsals are officially underway for the acclaimed new musical, “Dead Outlaw,” as it prepares for its highly anticipated transfer to Broadway. The production, which earned widespread critical praise and multiple prestigious awards during its recent Off-Broadway run, is set to begin previews at the Longacre Theatre on April 12, 2025, with opening night scheduled for April 27, 2025.

A True Story’s Journey to the Stage

“Dead Outlaw” delves into the bizarre-yet-true story of Elmer McCurdy, a real-life ambitious outlaw whose life took an unexpected turn after death. His post-mortem journey led to a remarkable and somewhat macabre second career spanning decades, as he became a mummified attraction in side-shows and carnivals across the United States before his identity was rediscovered.

The musical adaptation of McCurdy’s strange fate captivated audiences and critics during its world premiere run in 2024 at the Minetta Lane Theatre. Presented by Audible Theater, the production garnered significant accolades, signaling its potential for a larger platform.

From Off-Broadway Acclaim to Broadway Lights

The Off-Broadway engagement proved to be a major success story, culminating in the musical receiving several top honors. “Dead Outlaw” was awarded the Drama Desk Award, the Off Broadway Alliance Award, and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best New Musical. This sweep of major awards solidified its reputation as one of the most significant new theatrical works of the past year, fueling anticipation for its move to the Broadway stage.

The Creative Team Behind the Production

The transfer brings the celebrated creative team responsible for the Off-Broadway success to the Longacre Theatre. The musical features a book penned by Itamar Moses, known for his sharp and insightful writing. The distinctive music and lyrics are the work of the acclaimed duo David Yazbek and Erik Della Penna, whose collaboration has produced a unique score befitting the unusual subject matter. Guiding the production is director David Cromer, who also helmed the praised Off-Broadway run, ensuring artistic continuity and vision for the Broadway engagement.

Reprising Their Roles: The Broadway Cast

A significant strength of the Broadway transfer is the return of the core cast members from the original production, allowing audiences to experience the performances that were central to the show’s Off-Broadway triumph. Andrew Durand reprises his central role as Elmer McCurdy, bringing the outlaw’s posthumous saga to life. He is joined by Jeb Brown as Band Leader/Jarrett, Eddie Cooper as Coroner Johnson, Dashiell Eaves as Louis/Charles Patterson, Julia Knitel as Helen/Maggie, Ken Marks as George, Trent Saunders as Andy Payne, and Thom Sesma as Coroner Noguchi. Their collective return promises to maintain the acclaimed ensemble chemistry. Emily Fink and Max Sangerman will serve as understudies for the Broadway production.

The Full Artistic and Production Team

The expanded creative team bringing “Dead Outlaw” to the Broadway scale includes Ani Taj as choreographer, working to physicalize the musical’s narrative. The visual world of the show is crafted by Arnulfo Maldonado (scenic design), Sarah Laux (costume design), and Heather Gilbert (lighting design). Sound design is by Kai Harada. The musical direction is overseen by music supervisor Dean Sharenow and music director Rebekah Bruce. Orchestrations are a collaboration between David Yazbek, Erik Della Penna, and Dean Sharenow. Casting is handled by Tara Rubin Casting/Peter Van Dam, ensuring the ensemble is fully realized. The production stage manager is Cynthia Cahill, overseeing the complex logistics of the theatrical presentation.

Inside the Rehearsal Room

As the production moves towards its Broadway premiere, the company is now immersed in the vital rehearsal process. This critical phase involves refining performances, integrating the technical elements, and adapting the production to the Longacre Theatre’s stage. It is within these rehearsal walls that the creative vision takes its final shape, building upon the success achieved Off-Broadway while preparing for the unique demands and opportunities of a Broadway run. The energy and collaboration within the rehearsal room are paramount as the cast and creative team work to bring this award-winning musical to a wider audience.

Anticipation is high for the Broadway debut of “Dead Outlaw.” Following its celebrated Off-Broadway run and the assembly of this distinguished team, the musical is poised to be a notable arrival on the Great White Way in the spring of 2025, offering audiences a compelling and unusual story presented through song and theatre.