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 ÌÀ²»ÈÈÊÓƵ 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 Columbia 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 ÌÀ²»ÈÈÊÓƵ 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 Columbia alum Anna D. Shapiro—and the mentor who shaped them both—read their conversation in DEMO magazine, styled as a play in five acts.