True Crime Comes to Life in the One-Man Show 'Kenrex'

In this episode of All of It, host Alison Stewart speaks with Jack Holden, the creator and star of the one-man theatrical show Ken Rex, which dramatizes the real-life murder of Ken Rex McElroy in Skidmore, Missouri, in 1981. The show, described as a 'true crime podcast come to life,' features Holden portraying all characters—ranging from the menacing McElroy to townspeople and law enforcement—using voice, posture, and immersive sound design to create a gripping, cinematic experience. Drawing inspiration from true crime podcasts like Serial and documentaries such as 60 Minutes, Holden and co-director Ed Stambouli crafted a narrative that explores moral ambiguity, systemic failure, and vigilantism. The performance, which earned Holden an Olivier Award, is praised for its technical brilliance, emotional depth, and the way it challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable questions about justice and complicity. The show runs at New York’s Lucille Lortel Theatre and has sparked renewed public interest in the case, with audiences diving into historical records after the performance. Key takeaways include: 1) A one-person show can deliver complex, multi-character narratives through vocal and physical transformation; 2) Immersive sound design and live music can elevate theatre to a concert-like experience; 3) The story of Skidmore reveals how systemic neglect and legal loopholes enable abuse; 4) The moral complexity of vigilante justice forces audiences to reflect on their own potential actions in similar circumstances; 5) Creative adaptation requires balancing factual accuracy with narrative clarity, especially when condensing real events into a theatrical format; 6) Authentic regional accents and character voices are achieved through deep research and vocal experimentation; 7) The journey from UK premiere to Broadway is a testament to independent theatre’s resilience and artistry; 8) Audience engagement extends beyond the stage, with many seeking out historical details post-show, deepening the cultural impact of the work.