The Outsiders Musical Tour Brings Rain-Soaked Rumble to Hollywood Pantages
The national production of the Tony Award-winning musical "The Outsiders" showcases an intense rumble at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre, utilizing over 100 gallons of water during each performance. Brothers Rick and Jeff Kuperman choreograph this three-minute fight, prioritizing safety and meticulous control. To master the timing, the cast practices the fight choreography at a reduced intensity, referred to as "at 65." Dance captain Hannah Jennens, on her inaugural national tour, deems these rehearsals essential and notes that there have been no incidents. The musical, adapted by Adam Rapp and Justin Levine, merges S.E. Hinton's 1967 novel with Francis Ford Coppola's 1983 film. Director Danya Taymor, a 2024 Tony Award recipient, aims to authentically portray the consequences of violence through the integration of fight and dance choreography.
Key facts
- The Outsiders musical uses over 100 gallons of water per performance for its climactic rumble.
- The rumble is choreographed by brothers Rick and Jeff Kuperman.
- Actors rehearse the fight at 65% intensity during a pre-show 'lift call' to ensure safety.
- The musical's book is by Adam Rapp and Justin Levine, based on S.E. Hinton's 1967 novel.
- Danya Taymor won the 2024 Tony Award for directing the musical.
- The stage floor is covered with EPDM synthetic rubber, a waterproof material that provides traction.
- Water used in the scene is drained and recycled for the next performance.
- The production is currently on a national tour, with a stop at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre.
Entities
Artists
- Rick Kuperman
- Jeff Kuperman
- Hannah Jennens
- S.E. Hinton
- Francis Ford Coppola
- C. Thomas Howell
- Adam Rapp
- Justin Levine
- Danya Taymor
Institutions
- Hollywood Pantages Theatre
- The Outsiders musical
Locations
- Los Angeles
- United States