DEADWOOD ATTRACTION FIELD GUIDE
Step Into Deadwood’s Courtroom: The Trial of Jack McCall Reenacted Live
A one-hour, family-friendly interactive theatrical reenactment staged near the original Wild Bill Hickok assassination site—this guide explains what to expect and how to join the show.
Step Into Deadwood’s Courtroom: The Trial of Jack McCall Reenacted Live.
In the compact streets of Deadwood, an hour-long theatrical performance drops you into the aftermath of Wild Bill Hickok’s shooting. The Trial of Jack McCall stages the capture and impromptu trial of Crooked Nose Jack just a few doors down from the historical assassination site, marrying historical storytelling with live, interactive theater in a format suitable for all ages.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Deadwood mainstay since 1924
This long-running production has been presented in Deadwood since 1924, offering a continuously staged window into the town’s Wild West past.
Interactive courtroom drama
Actors chronicle the shooting of Wild Bill Hickok, the capture of Jack McCall and the impromptu trial that followed, combining scripted storytelling with moments that pull the audience into the action.
Family-friendly and participatory
Designed for all ages, the show is family-friendly and may invite guests to serve as extras—participation is optional.
What the day feels like
What the hour feels like
The performance unfolds close to the actual location of Hickok’s death: performers recreate the shooting, the capture and a makeshift trial over roughly one hour. The staging blends historical detail with improvisation; at several moments audience members may be called forward to add spontaneity, though taking part is always optional.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this fits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The performance runs approximately 1 hour.
No specialized equipment is required; think of it as a theater performance.
The show is staged a few doors down from the historical assassination site in Deadwood; follow local signage or operator directions for the exact entry point.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the performance?
The Trial of Jack McCall runs for approximately one hour.
Is the show appropriate for children?
Yes. The production is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
Will audience members be asked to participate?
Audience members may be invited to serve as extras in the trial, but participation is optional and not required.
Where is the reenactment staged?
The performance is staged just a few doors down from where the assassination of Wild Bill Hickok took place in Deadwood.
Who runs the production and how large is the audience?
The show is presented by Deadwood Alive and accommodates up to 100 people per performance.
How long has this production been running?
This long-running production has been presented in Deadwood since 1924.