Musical ‘Dead Outlaw’ Brings Famous Corpse to Broadway Stage
In a quirky turn of events, the new musical ‘Dead Outlaw’ takes center stage on Broadway, shedding light on the fascinating yet morbid tale of Elmer McCurdy. Born in 1880, McCurdy’s criminal endeavors fell short of success, leading to his demise in a police shoot-out after a failed train robbery in 1911. However, his story didn’t end there. His mummified body embarked on a bizarre journey, captivating audiences at traveling carnivals and freak shows before being discovered in a Long Beach fun house in 1976.
The show, a brainchild of David Yazbek, Erik Della Penna, and Itamar Moses, premiered last year to critical acclaim at Audible’s Minetta Lane Theatre. With director David Cromer at the helm, ‘Dead Outlaw’ brings to life the peculiar narrative of a man whose notoriety as a corpse surpassed his living reputation. Staying true to its offbeat nature, the musical challenges traditional storytelling by infusing singing and dancing into the macabre tale.
As the curtains rise, audiences are introduced to Andrew Durand as Elmer, embodying the reckless spirit of the titular character. Durand’s performance, complemented by Jeb Brown’s bandleader persona, immerses viewers in an authentic Americana experience. The music, under the guidance of Rebekah Bruce and Dean Sharenow, sets the tone for Elmer’s tumultuous journey through a world filled with failed heists and misguided ambitions.
Throughout the production, Elmer’s turbulent life unfolds like a graphic novel, with the ensemble cast painting a vivid picture of his misadventures across Maine, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Elmer’s relentless pursuit of criminal success, despite his inherent ineptitude, mirrors the quintessential American dream distorted by greed and hubris.
Julia Knitel’s portrayal of Maggie, Elmer’s fleeting love interest, offers a poignant contrast to the male-dominated narrative, injecting a sense of vulnerability and introspection. As Maggie reflects on the enigmatic figure that entered and exited her life, Knitel’s melodic voice provides a much-needed emotional depth to the story.
Amidst the eccentricity of ‘Dead Outlaw,’ Thom Sesma’s portrayal of coroner Thomas Noguchi adds a touch of Vegas flair, enhancing the show’s satirical elements. Ani Taj’s choreography, though minimalist, complements the production’s overall aesthetic, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that lingers in the minds of viewers.
Despite its dark undertones and unconventional premise, ‘Dead Outlaw’ captivates audiences with its unapologetically bizarre narrative. As the musical unfolds, it invites viewers to ponder the darker facets of the American experience, where even a dead body becomes a spectacle for profit.
In a theatrical landscape dominated by conventional storytelling, ‘Dead Outlaw’ dares to stand out as a peculiar yet enthralling exploration of fame, greed, and the fleeting nature of notoriety. As audiences witness Elmer’s tumultuous journey from failed bandit to posthumous celebrity, they are reminded of the fragile line between ambition and hubris that defines the American dream.
