The curtain has risen on a Broadway spectacle that’s as hot as the flames engulfing its story. “Dead & Company,” the new musical comedy with a stellar cast led by the charismatic Neil Patrick Harris and his real-life partner David Burtka, ignited the stage at the Walter Kerr Theatre with a fiery opening night. Patti LuPone, always a force of nature, brought her signature power, while a bevy of bright talents filled the stage with raw energy and humor. Step inside the blazing premiere with us, as we explore the vibrant world of “Dead & Company” through a captivating gallery of photos.
The Cast and Crew
Meet the talented cast members of Dead Outlaw, including Andrew Durand, Jeb Brown, Eddie Cooper, and more. Below, you can find bios and photos of the cast members.
- Andrew Durand as Elmer McCurdy
- 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
- Thom Sesma as Coroner Noguchi
The creative team behind the scenes includes director David Cromer, choreographer Ani Taj, scenic designer Arnulfo Maldonado, costume designer Sarah Laux, lighting designer Heather Gilbert, sound designer Kai Harada, and music supervisor Dean Sharenow, with orchestrations by David Yazbek, Erik Della Penna, and Dean Sharenow.
Director David Cromer
In an interview, Cromer discussed his vision for the show and working with the cast. “I’m thrilled to be back at the helm of Dead Outlaw, a show that has touched the hearts of so many people,” he said. “The cast is incredible, and I’m so grateful to be working with them again. We’ve had a blast bringing this show to life, and I think audiences will really connect with the characters and story.”
Composer David Yazbek and Lyricist Erik Della Penna
In a discussion about the creative process behind the music and lyrics, Yazbek and Della Penna spoke about their fascination with the story of Elmer McCurdy. “We were both drawn to the story of Elmer McCurdy, a man who was an outlaw in life but became a beloved attraction in death,” Yazbek said. “We wanted to explore the themes of redemption and the power of storytelling in the musical.”
Broadway Cares: A Night of Dream Roles
Broadway Cares is launching a new annual concert event, Broadway Dream Roles, featuring performers singing songs from dream roles they have not yet played. The evening will take place on April 28 at 7 PM at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre.
The event will feature a mix of Broadway favorites and rising stars stepping into roles they have longed to play, but never had the opportunity to. Tony winner Kara Young will host the evening, and performers will include Erich Bergen, Liz Callaway, Tom Francis, Jennifer Holliday, Lesli Margherita, Jimin Moon, Zachary Noah Piser, Jasmine Amy Rogers, The Broadway Boys, Andrea Martin, and more.
Broadway Cares is one of the nation’s leading industry-based, nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. By drawing upon the talents, resources, and generosity of the American theatre community, Broadway Cares has awarded more than $300 million for essential services for people with HIV/AIDS and other critical illnesses across the United States.
The evening is produced by and benefits Broadway Cares. Visit BroadwayCares.org/dreamroles to learn more about the event and how you can support Broadway Cares.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the blazing Broadway opening of “Dead Outlaw” was a night to remember, filled with glitz, glamour, and a star-studded cast of attendees. The article took readers on an exclusive journey, showcasing the excitement and energy of the evening through a captivating photo essay. From Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka’s stylish arrival to Patti LuPone’s triumphant pose on the red carpet, the A-list gathering was a testament to the power of live theatre to bring people together.
The significance of “Dead Outlaw’s” successful opening night extends beyond the realm of entertainment, as it highlights the resilience and determination of the Broadway community in the face of adversity. During a time when the very existence of live theatre is threatened, the show’s bold and unapologetic storytelling serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the transformative impact of art on society. As the curtains rise on this new production, it also raises important questions about the role of theatre in shaping our cultural narrative and the responsibility that comes with it.
As the lights dim and the applause fades, the real work begins. The success of “Dead Outlaw” will undoubtedly pave the way for more daring and innovative productions, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on stage. As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the show must go on, and with “Dead Outlaw” leading the charge, the future of Broadway has never looked brighter. In the words of the great Patti LuPone, “Theatre is a sacred space where we can come together, share our stories, and find common ground.” Let us continue to celebrate and support this sacred space, for it is in the darkness of the theatre that we find the light that guides us forward.