by Tina Rataj
The Outsiders, a new musical adaptation of S.E. Hinton’s classic 1967 novel, officially opened at Bass Concert Hall in Austin, Texas on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, and runs through Sunday, October 26. Set in 1960s Tulsa, Oklahoma, the story follows the turbulent lives of two rival teenage gangs—the working-class “Greasers” and the affluent “Socs.”
While many are familiar with Francis Ford Coppola’s 1983 film adaptation, which featured a cast of future Hollywood legends, this musical breathes new life into the narrative with a fresh and emotionally charged score by Jamestown Revival (Jonathan Clay & Zach Chance) and Justin Levine.
The show opens quietly with Ponyboy Curtis, played with introspective charm by Nolan White, narrating his experience growing up in Tulsa. This subdued beginning quickly gives way to a powerful ensemble introduction, where the cast’s vocal strength and chemistry shine. The Curtis brothers—Darrell (Travis Roy Rogers) and Sodapop (Corbin Drew Ross)—anchor the story with compelling performances that highlight the tension and tenderness of their sibling bond. Each actor brings a distinct energy to the stage, making their family dynamic both believable and deeply moving.
Among the supporting cast, Johnny Cade (Bonnell Fabrini) and Dallas Winston (Tyler Jordan Wesley) deliver standout performances. Fabrini’s portrayal of Johnny is heartbreakingly sincere, while Wesley’s Dallas commands the stage with charisma and a remarkable voice.
What truly elevates this production is its technical brilliance. The set design, lighting, and choreography are nothing short of breathtaking. The lighting effects, in particular, are masterfully executed. They don’t just illuminate the stage; they immerse the audience in the soul of each moment. Several scenes left the crowd audibly gasping, especially the climactic rumble between the Greasers and the Socs, which was choreographed with cinematic intensity..
The Outsiders musical resonates with timeless themes. The struggles of class division, the search for belonging, and the pain of growing up are as relevant today as they were in the 1960s. This adaptation doesn’t just retell a story—it reinterprets it for a new generation. The Outsiders musical is a must-see for fans of the novel, the film, and anyone who appreciates theater that moves both the heart and the mind.
Musical numbers
Act 1
Tulsa ’67 – Sets the scene with Ponyboy’s narration of life in Tulsa.
Grease Got a Hold – Ponyboy’s initiation into the Greasers.
Runs in the Family – Darrel reflects on his role as guardian.
Great Expectations – Ponyboy and Sodapop discuss literature and identity.
Friday at the Drive-In – The Greasers meet Cherry Valance.
I Could Talk to You All Night – Cherry and Ponyboy connect beyond stereotypes.
Runs in the Family (Reprise) – Reinforces the Curtis family bond.
Far Away From Tulsa – Ponyboy and Johnny hide out after a violent encounter.
Run Run Brother – A high-energy number capturing the urgency of escape.
Act 2
Justice for Tulsa – Reflects on the social divide and consequences.
Death’s at My Door – A haunting moment of reckoning.
Throwing in the Towel – Darrel’s emotional struggle with responsibility.
Soda’s Letter – Sodapop’s heartfelt message to Ponyboy.
Hoods Turned Heroes – The Greasers’ transformation and unity.
Hopeless War – Cherry’s perspective on the futility of violence.
Trouble – A brief but intense interlude.
Little Brother – Darrel’s emotional breakthrough with Ponyboy.
Stay Gold – Johnny’s final message, a powerful emotional climax.
Finale (Tulsa ’67) – A reprise that brings the story full circle.
