‘The Outsiders’ are “Staying Gold” on Broadway
Broadway breathes fresh life into The Outsiders, transforming S.E. Hinton’s seminal novel into a striking new musical. This adaptation walks the fine line between nostalgia and contemporary relevance, painting a raw, poignant portrait of youth, class struggle, and the ties that define us. Keeping true to the source material, The Outsiders brings to life the rich narrative Hinton painted in her novel while adding original music to impressive sets and spectacular lighting design, transforming the story into something truly magical.
[Warning: Spoilers from the Musical, The Outsiders are below!]
Life in Tulsa 1967 comes with some challenges for Pony Boy in The Outsiders
Set in 1960s Tulsa, the story follows the Greasers, a close-knit group of working-class boys locked in constant conflict with the privileged Socs. At its heart is Ponyboy Curtis (played by understudy Josh Strobl at our production), a thoughtful and sensitive teenager navigating adolescence amid social division. His deep friendship with Johnny Cade (Sky Lakota-Lynch) drives the narrative, and when a violent confrontation with the Socs leads to devastating consequences, the Greasers must face loss, loyalty, and the search for belonging. With a rich, emotionally charged score, the musical elevates these relationships, reminding audiences that the struggles of youth transcend time and background.
Josh Strobl’s Ponyboy is both magnetic and deeply empathetic, his performance capturing the character’s internal battle between idealism and harsh reality. With a voice that carries both vulnerability and strength, Strobl delivers a performance that lingers long after the final note. Sky Lakota-Lynch shines as Johnny Cade, bringing a heartbreaking fragility and resilience to the role. His hauntingly soulful voice amplifies Johnny’s tragic arc, making his moments on stage deeply affecting.
An electric supporting cast brings S.E. Hinton’s work to life on stage
As the rebellious and volatile Dallas Winston, Joshua Boone commands attention. His Dally is intense, layered, and unpredictable, with an emotional depth that makes the character’s pain and bravado equally compelling. Boone’s performance is electric, balancing Dally’s rough exterior with the tenderness he struggles to hide. Brent Comer’s Darrel Curtis is both steadfast and warm, embodying the weight of responsibility that comes with raising his younger brothers. Meanwhile, Jason Schmidt’s Sodapop Curtis brings effortless charm and heart to the production, serving as a source of both levity and emotional grounding.
Maggie Kuntz (also an understudy for this performance of The Outsiders) is a revelation as Cherry Valance, the Soc girl who sees beyond class lines. Her nuanced performance captures Cherry’s internal conflict, and her number “It’s Just the Way It Is” stands as a defining emotional moment in the show. Daryl Tofa as the wisecracking Two-Bit provides humor without undercutting the musical’s emotional core, while Kevin William Paul delivers a chilling portrayal of Bob, the entitled and dangerous Soc whose actions set the story’s tragic events in motion.
The ensemble is a force, heightening the emotional stakes with seamless harmonies and electrifying movement. Standout contributions come from Barton Cowperthwaite (Brill), Tilly Evans-Krueger (Ace), Renni Anthony Magee (Steve), SarahGrace Mariani (Marcia), and Melody Rose (Beverly), each adding richness and texture to the world of The Outsiders.
The Music grounds The Outsiders with also raising the show to theater excellence
With a score by Jamestown Revival and Justin D., the music is a natural extension of the story’s raw intensity. A fusion of folk, rock, and anthemic melodies, the songs capture the restless spirit of the Greasers. Numbers like “Stay Gold” and “The Night We Were Young” stand out as emotionally charged reflections of longing, defiance, and hope. The music never feels like an add-on; it’s an organic heartbeat that pulses through the narrative, amplifying its depth and impact.
The Venue & Staging of the Broadway musical The Outsiders
Housed at the Jacobs Theatre, The Outsiders finds the perfect stage for its intimate storytelling. The venue’s history and close quarters enhance the production’s intensity, making each moment feel immediate and personal. Director David Cromer and choreographer Sam Pinkleton craft a visceral experience, balancing kinetic energy with still, aching moments of reflection. The staging, fluid and immersive, ensures that every confrontation, every quiet exchange, and every moment of brotherhood lands with full force.
The Outsiders: A New Musical is a masterclass in adaptation, honoring the spirit of Hinton’s novel while forging a bold new identity. With a stellar cast, a powerful score, and a production that pulses with life, this Broadway reimagining is a triumph. Once you witness the incredible work the cast and creatives have put into this show, it becomes incredibly clear why it swept last year’s Tony Awards, as it is truly a work of art. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the novel or stepping into Ponyboy’s world for the first time, this show is a deeply moving experience that lingers well beyond the final curtain. It’s a must-see for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling to bridge divides and speak to the heart of what it means to be young, lost, and searching for belonging.
The Outsiders is currently playing at the Jacobs Theatre until at least July. Also, be on the lookout for it coming to a city near you as it begins its North American Tour in Fall 2025. Have you caught this musical in New York City? What’s your favorite song from the cast album? Excited to see it on tour? Let us know on social media @boxseatbabes!
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