The Defeat of Jesse James - History Theatre

The setting: A lounge-like thrust space, with multiple levels, and a large "Applause" sign

The purpose: The final concert of that man, that legend, that killer - Jesse James

Jesse James as a country-rock star, getting his chance to tell his story in his words, and via song. This includes duets with his brother Frank, and his mother Zeralda. It includes special guest stars, coming in to pick up and share a bit of their story and how it relates to James, and maybe sing a song, or dance a bit.

From my perspective, this is the concept behind The Defeat of Jesse James, playing at the History Theatre in St. Paul. It was wonderful! Often times, history being history, shows dealing with history are told in a flashback/retrospective storytelling style. I respect that and understand it. This show takes that style and flips it in ways I did not expect. Written by Jeffrey Hatcher, with music and lyrics by Chan Poling (of the Suburbs and the New Standards), and directed by Richard D. Thompson, this show is unexpected in many ways. The music is varied, from a country-rock vibe, to a white church choir vibe, to a pure broadway vibe, and a bit of a soul vibe. The band is on stage, and live - each player on a raised level that is lit around the edges...piano, guitar, drums, and bass. Jesse James, played by the incredible Adam Qualls, comes off as a rock star in the vein of any number of "Rebel/Outlaw Country" singers. In my mind I thought of Charlie Daniels, Hank Williams Jr, or even Hank Williams III. Strong, doing his own thing, telling his story the way he feels it should be told...at least in Act One. His story starts at the beginning where we are introduced to Mother Zeralda (the incomprable Angela Timberman), and his brother Frank (Dane Stauffer). We see what leads to Jesse's first kill, and the rest of the musical shows us where that first kill leads to. Talk about a Cult of Personality! 

The entire cast was spot-on. They each played multiple characters, and it was clear they were all having a great time doing the show. Suzie Juul plays Jesse's wife Zeralda (known as Z) with a lovely ballad in Act One. Jordan Legget, as Perry Samuel, shares some rare information in Act Two with a great solo. Sasha Andreev and Jen Burleigh-Bentz (Clell Miller and Bill Chadwell respectively) have a fantastic and hilarious duet in Act Two. James Ramlet plays two key figures in the life of Jesse James, and has two lead songs in Act One. Randy Schmeling fills out the ensemble with his great voice and energy playing quite a few characters, and having a few solo sung lines through out. Honestly this cast is really an amazing cast, through and through. Act One gives the background leading up to Northfield. I think we all know what happens in Northfield, and in Act Two we see what actually happens, and again, the fall-out from it. The script is so well written, and is much more funny than I expected it to be. You get a personal touch from James, along with other people's perspectives on his actions. It really is a fantastic show. But don't take my word for it. Go see it!

Photos: Rick Spaulding