Death Becomes Him: Andrew Durand Breathes Life Into a Legend Long Gone in Broadway’s “Dead Outlaw” (Exclusive)

Andrew Durand Brings Elmer McCurdy to Life in Broadway’s ‘Dead Outlaw’

Broadway audiences are flocking to the Longacre Theatre in New York City to witness Andrew Durand’s captivating performance in the new musical “Dead Outlaw.” As the show gears up for its official opening on Sunday, April 27, Durand, who stars as Elmer McCurdy, the infamous American outlaw, sat down with PEOPLE for an exclusive interview about his experience in this darkly comedic and inventive production.

Durand, a seasoned Broadway actor known for his roles in various shows, including “Shucked” and “Head Over Heels,” expressed his excitement about being cast in the leading role in “Dead Outlaw.” The actor shared with PEOPLE, “You sort of can’t believe it, you know? A lot of times when you do a show, you sort of know the journey is to get it to Broadway. But this one is special to me because it was a group of people who came together and really cared about putting the art first and saying, ‘Let’s make this great show and then see what happens.’ So to be here, it’s exciting.”

“Dead Outlaw” tells the bizarre true story of Elmer McCurdy, a failed train robber whose posthumous journey took on a life of its own. After being killed in a shootout in 1911, McCurdy’s body was embalmed with arsenic and exhibited by an undertaker for profit. The macabre tale of his corpse’s travels through carnivals, museums, and even films until its discovery at a California amusement park in 1976 forms the core of this unique musical.

The Broadway production of “Dead Outlaw” follows a successful six-week Off-Broadway run at Audible Theater’s Minetta Lane Theatre, where it received critical acclaim and several awards. Directed by David Cromer, the show is expected to be a frontrunner at the upcoming 2025 Tony Awards, with nominations set to be announced on May 1.

Durand shared insights into his preparation for the role of Elmer McCurdy, revealing that he delved into research about the character’s complex background. Drawing from his own personal connections to themes of addiction and family struggles, Durand found resonance in portraying the anti-hero characteristics of McCurdy, a man grappling with his demons while striving for redemption.

One of the standout challenges for Durand in “Dead Outlaw” is his portrayal of Elmer McCurdy in a coffin for most of act two. Despite the physical and mental demands of maintaining perfect stillness on stage, Durand approaches the task with a meticulous strategy, focusing on the humanity and significance of the character he embodies.

As an actor with experience in both screen and stage performances, Durand highlighted the collaborative and immersive nature of theater that sets it apart from TV and film work. He expressed his preference for the live, interactive aspect of theater, where actors have the opportunity to refine their craft in real-time with audience feedback.

While navigating the awards season buzz and anticipation surrounding “Dead Outlaw,” Durand keeps a grounded perspective, focusing on staying present in each performance and cherishing the opportunity to share the story of Elmer McCurdy with audiences. The musical, featuring a rockabilly score by David Yazbek and Erik Della Pena, promises a riveting and thought-provoking experience for theater enthusiasts.

The success of “Dead Outlaw” on Broadway is a testament to the talent and dedication of the cast and creative team involved in bringing this gripping and unconventional story to life on stage. As Andrew Durand continues to breathe depth and authenticity into the character of Elmer McCurdy, audiences are in for a theatrical experience that is as haunting as it is poignant.