Looking for a Dead Outlaw review? Wondering if it’s worth seeing on Broadway or where to get tickets? As someone who’s seen it, streamed about it, and now written about it—I’ve got you covered.
This? It’s real.
“Embalmed outlaw accidentally becomes mummified sideshow attraction.”
And that’s still not the weirdest part.
If you’ve seen my recent video on Instagram or YouTube, you already know I’ve been talking about Dead Outlaw, the new Tony-nominated Broadway musical that turns one of the strangest true crime stories in American history into something surprisingly emotional—and wildly entertaining. Here’s a quick video recap of how it hit me:
DEAD OUTLAW runs approx 1 hour and 40 min with no intermission.
It felt less like a traditional Broadway show and more like walking into a gritty dive bar, only to get blown away by a live band you’ve never heard of. The first act pulls you into a dusty, lawless Western. Then the second half drops in with unexpected comedy, absurdity, and a deeper reflection on legacy than you might expect from a show that begins with a train robbery.
If you’re thinking of catching it live, here’s what you should know:
7 Things You Didn’t Know About Dead Outlaw
1. It’s Based on a Real Story That Sounds Totally Fake
Yes, Dead Outlaw is inspired by real events. It tells the strange-but-true tale of Elmer McCurdy, a failed early-1900s outlaw whose preserved body ended up traveling the country for decades—as a literal sideshow attraction. His afterlife was arguably more interesting than his actual life.
Elmer Mccurdy: The Life And Afterlife Of An American Outlaw
$19.37
Want to dive deeper into the wild true story behind Dead Outlaw?
Pick up Elmer McCurdy: The Life and Afterlife of an American Outlaw by Mark Svenvold — a fascinating, darkly funny account of the real-life outlaw whose post-mortem journey inspired the Tony-nominated musical. From failed heists to decades as a traveling mummy, McCurdy’s story is stranger than fiction… because it’s true.
2. The Music Is by a Tony-Winning Legend
David Yazbek (The Band’s Visit, Tootsie) teamed up with Erik Della Penna to craft a genre-bending score that fuses Americana, folk rock, and musical theatre. The songs feel like they belong in a roadhouse—and that’s a compliment.
3. It’s a Tony Darling This Year
Dead Outlaw scored seven 2025 Tony nominations, including Best Musical, Best Score, Best Book, and acting nods for Andrew Durand, Jeb Brown, and Julia Knitel. It’s officially one of Broadway’s standout productions this season.
4. The Cast Recording Just Dropped (Part 1)
The first seven tracks of the Broadway cast album are now streaming, giving fans a preview before the full recording arrives as an Audible Original later this fall. Expect lush vocals and immersive Dolby Atmos sound.
You can find the streaming links on Spotify and Apple Music!
5. It Started Off-Broadway and Took Off
After its Off-Broadway debut at the Minetta Lane Theatre with Audible Theater, the show became one of the most awarded new musicals of the year. Now it’s lighting up the Longacre Theatre with a fully reunited cast.
6. It’s a Commentary on Fame, Death, and the American Dream
Beyond its true crime hook and outlaw flair, Dead Outlaw digs into the absurd ways we remember (or forget) people. It’s weird. It’s funny. And it’s kind of profound.
7. It’s Unlike Anything Else on Broadway Right Now
From onstage musicians to its immersive lighting and sound design, this show feels intimate and raw—more like a band’s concept album brought to life than your typical Broadway spectacle. If you’re into musicals that take risks, this is your show.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely enjoyed Dead Outlaw. It’s intimate, gritty, funny, and surprisingly thought-provoking. If you’re looking for a show that feels fresh—one that pushes Broadway storytelling into weird and wonderful new directions—this is it.
Now playing at the Longacre Theatre, Dead Outlaw is a 2025 Tony Award-nominated musical, earning seven nominations, including Best Musical, Best Actor (Andrew Durand), Best Featured Actor (Jeb Brown), Best Featured Actress (Julia Knitel), Best Book (Itamar Moses), Best Original Score (David Yazbek and Erik Della Penna), and Best Direction (David Cromer).
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🎟️ Ready to see it?
You can get official tickets and more info at DeadOutlawMusical.com
