Joseph Zettelmaier

Dead Man's Shoes Joseph Zettelmaier

The year is 1883. The notorious outlaw Injun Bill Picote has escaped from prison, along with a hard-luck drunk named Froggy. The unlikely partners endure trials and bizarre misadventures as they set out to right a terrible wrong in this outrageous dark comedy about life, friendship and vengeance in the Wild West. As Bill's past catches up with him, and Froggy helps him discover his long-ignored conscience, a question arises: Is the hope of a better life stronger than the need to avenge the death of a friend? What starts out as a sweeping epic tale boils down to an incredibly funny, insightful and deeply personal journey for two men... and a pair of shoes. Loosely based on actual events.

"The show delivers some simple truths about friendship, redemption and the dignity of man in a world where life is exceedingly cheap. Zettelmaier is the best and most prolific playwright working in Michigan today." - The Detroit Free Press

Dead Man's Shoes was the recipient of an Edgerton Foundation New American Play Award in 2013.