Thrilling 'The Outsiders' Musical Captures Grit and Passion

Broadway in Chicago production delivers a raw, redemptive story of class war between Tulsa teens.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Broadway in Chicago musical adaptation of S.E. Hinton's classic 1967 novel 'The Outsiders' runs through February 22 at the Cadillac Palace Theatre, capturing the tone, spirit and story of the original in a thrilling, can't-look-away production. The score veers between hypnotic ballads and stomping bangers, while the book hurtles the plot forward with force. Director Danya Taymor's richly detailed production lays bare the trauma of surviving police brutality, domestic violence and generational poverty, while also celebrating ferocious love and loyalty.

Why it matters

More than half a century after its publication, 'The Outsiders' remains a powerful exploration of class divides and the struggles of marginalized youth. This musical adaptation brings the story to life in a visceral, immersive way, resonating with contemporary audiences and highlighting the timeless themes of Hinton's original work.

The details

The 1967-set musical uses sound and visuals to fully immerse the audience in a gritty, merciless world where hope and joy are hard won. The opening number 'Tulsa '67' sets the tone, transitioning from an exquisite ballad to a mighty crescendo as the ensemble joins in. The greasers' defiant anthem 'Grease' pops with the energy and anger of young people pushed to the outermost margins of society. The choreography is explosive, with the climactic second-act number 'Trouble' a stunning showstopper of music, motion and light.

  • The Broadway in Chicago musical adaptation of 'The Outsiders' runs through February 22, 2026 at the Cadillac Palace Theatre.

The players

Danya Taymor

The director of the Broadway in Chicago production of 'The Outsiders' musical.

Nolan White

The actor portraying the lead role of Ponyboy Curtis in the musical.

S.E. Hinton

The author of the original 1967 novel 'The Outsiders', which the musical is based on.

Justin Levine

The composer and lyricist who wrote the music and lyrics for the 'The Outsiders' musical, along with co-writer Adam Rapp.

Jamestown Revival

The musical duo of Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance, who co-wrote the music and lyrics for the 'The Outsiders' musical.

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What’s next

The Broadway in Chicago production of 'The Outsiders' musical will continue its run at the Cadillac Palace Theatre through February 22, 2026.

The takeaway

This musical adaptation of 'The Outsiders' brings Hinton's classic tale of class conflict and teenage struggle to life in a visceral, immersive way, resonating with contemporary audiences and highlighting the timeless themes of the original work.