Broadway’s most daring and unconventional new musical, Dead Outlaw, has officially announced its final curtain call. The show will close at the Longacre Theatre on June 29, marking the end of its brief but memorable Broadway run. The news comes just weeks after the musical received seven Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical, yet failed to secure any wins. This “Dead Outlaw Broadway closing date” signals the conclusion of a production that has captivated audiences with its dark humor, true-crime roots, and unforgettable performances.
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The Story Behind Dead Outlaw
Dead Outlaw is a darkly comedic musical based on the bizarre true story of Elmer McCurdy, an early 20th-century outlaw whose life of crime ended in a shootout in 1911. What followed was even more extraordinary: his body was embalmed and displayed as a sideshow attraction, traveling across the US for decades before being rediscovered in a California amusement park in the 1970s. The show explores themes of fame, failure, and the absurdity of legacy, all while delivering laughs and gasps in equal measure.
Directed by Tony winner David Cromer, with music and lyrics by David Yazbek and Erik Della Penna, and a book by Itamar Moses, Dead Outlaw features a standout cast led by Andrew Durand as Elmer McCurdy. Supporting roles are filled by Jeb Brown, Julia Knitel, Thom Sesma, Eddie Cooper, Dashiell Eaves, Ken Marks, and Trent Saunders. The production has been praised for its irreverent wit and inventive staging, making it a critical favorite even as it struggled at the box office.
Key Facts and Figures
- Opening Date: April 27, 2025 (previews began April 12)
- Closing Date: June 29, 2025
- Total Performances: 73 regular shows and 14 previews
- Venue: Longacre Theatre, Broadway
- Runtime: 1 hour 40 minutes, no intermission
- Genre: Musical, Comedy
Despite its critical acclaim and loyal fanbase, Dead Outlaw failed to generate significant commercial momentum. In its final weeks, the show’s box office numbers remained underwhelming, with just $449,666 reported for the week ending June 15. This short run is not uncommon on Broadway, especially in a season crowded with high-profile productions and limited audience attention.
Why Dead Outlaw Stands Out
Dead Outlaw is more than just a musical—it’s a wild ride through American history and pop culture. The show’s creators took a little-known, real-life story and turned it into a theatrical event that challenges the boundaries of the genre. Its irreverent humor and unique subject matter have drawn comparisons to other groundbreaking shows, but its tone is entirely its own.
The musical’s journey began off-Broadway at the Minetta Lane Theatre, where it won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical in 2024. Its transition to Broadway was highly anticipated, but the show’s unconventional nature and dark themes may have limited its mainstream appeal. Still, Dead Outlaw has left a lasting impression on those who experienced it, proving that sometimes the most extraordinary stories are the ones that don’t fit the mold.
Cast and Creative Highlights
- Andrew Durand (Elmer McCurdy)
- Jeb Brown (Bandleader/Jarrett)
- Julia Knitel (Helen/Maggie)
- Thom Sesma (Coroner Noguchi)
- Eddie Cooper (Coroner Johnson)
- Dashiell Eaves (Louis/Charles Patterson)
- Ken Marks (George)
- Trent Saunders (Andy Payne)
The creative team includes choreographer Ani Taj, scenic designer Arnulfo Maldonado, costume designer Sarah Laux, lighting designer Heather Gilbert, sound designer Kai Harada, music supervisor Dean Sharenow, music director Rebekah Bruce, and orchestrators David Yazbek, Erik Della Penna, and Dean Sharenow.
The Legacy of Dead Outlaw
While Dead Outlaw may be closing its Broadway chapter, its story is far from over. A cast recording is already available on streaming platforms, and the full musical will be released as an Audible Original this fall. Producers Lia Vollack and Sonia Friedman have expressed their pride in the show, calling it “a true outlier—strange, singular, and enduring.” They believe in the future of Dead Outlaw and hope it will find new life in other formats and venues.
For fans who missed the Broadway run or want to relive the experience, the Audible release promises to bring the show’s unique energy and humor into living rooms everywhere. The cast and creative team have left an indelible mark on Broadway, and Dead Outlaw will likely be remembered as one of the most original productions of the season.
Key Point Summary
- Closing Date: June 29, 2025
- Venue: Longacre Theatre, Broadway
- Total Performances: 73 regular, 14 previews
- Genre: Musical, Comedy
- Cast: Andrew Durand, Jeb Brown, Julia Knitel, Thom Sesma, Eddie Cooper, Dashiell Eaves, Ken Marks, Trent Saunders
- Creative Team: David Cromer (director), David Yazbek & Erik Della Penna (music/lyrics), Itamar Moses (book)
- Awards: 7 Tony nominations, Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical (2024)
- Box Office: $449,666 (week ending June 15)
- Future: Audible Original release this fall
What’s Next for Dead Outlaw?
With the “Dead Outlaw Broadway closing date” now set, fans are encouraged to catch the show before it’s gone or look forward to the Audible release. The musical’s journey may be ending on Broadway, but its legacy is just beginning. Whether you’re a die-hard theatre lover or a newcomer to the world of musicals, Dead Outlaw offers a one-of-a-kind experience that’s not to be missed.
Don’t miss your last chance to see Dead Outlaw on Broadway—get your tickets now or mark your calendar for the Audible release this fall.