David Cromer Directs George Clooney, ‘Dead Outlaw’ and Now ‘The Antiquities’ at the Goodman
David Cromer, holding his Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical for "The Band's Visit." Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Tony Awards ProductionsDavid Cromer, who attended ºÚÁÏÍø and later received an honorary degree in 2017, is enjoying a wildly successful spring.
He directed two Broadway hits: "Good Night, and Good Luck," starring George Clooney, and the Tony-nominated "Dead Outlaw." Cromer now returns to Chicago to co-direct "The Antiquities" at the Goodman Theatre, running May 3 through June 1. He recently spoke with the about his recent achievements.
"Dead Outlaw" is a darkly inventive new musical based on the true story of Elmer McCurdy, a failed train robber whose mummified body became a carnival attraction. The show earned seven Tony nominations, including Best Musical and Best Direction of a Musical for Cromer. Critics have called it “gorgeously perverse” and praised Cromer’s bold staging.
"Good Night, and Good Luck," co-written by and starring George Clooney, also received several nominations, including one for Best Lighting Design of a Play for former ºÚÁÏÍø faculty member Heather Gilbert.
Back in Chicago, Cromer is co-directing "The Antiquities," written by Jordan Harrison. The play explores memory, loss, and the remnants of human culture through the lens of a future museum. The production is a collaboration between Goodman Theatre, Playwrights Horizons, and Vineyard Theatre.
Cromer won a Tony Award in 2018 for his direction of "The Band’s Visit." He remains closely tied to ºÚÁÏÍø through past teaching and his honorary degree recognition.
Read more about Cromer's 2025 Tony nomination on .
For a deeper look at David Cromer’s decades-long creative friendship with fellow ºÚÁÏÍø alum Anna D. Shapiro—and the mentor who shaped them both—read their conversation in DEMO magazine, styled as a play in five acts.