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The Woodland Christian School will present “Newsies Jr” as part of their spring musical series. Performances are scheduled for Friday, May 9 at 7 p.m., and Saturday, May 10 at both 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., taking place at the school’s performing arts theater. Admission tickets can be purchased at the venue; they cost $10 each for students and staff members and $15 per ticket for all others attending.
Inspired by the true events of the 1899 Newsboy Strike, Disney’s “Newsies Jr.” follows Jack Kelly, a defiant newsboy with aspirations of becoming an artist far from urban life. When media magnate Joseph Pulitzer increases the cost of newspapers for the newsboys (“just a dime per hundred papers,” as mentioned in the production), Kelly joins forces with other newsies to fight back against this injustice.
Assisted by journalist Katherine Plumley, the newsboys produce their own newspaper, prompting everyone in New York City to acknowledge the influence of “the underdog.” This theatrical show originates from the 1992 movie musical titled “Newsies.” Interestingly, despite being a commercial failure at first—receiving poor critical reception upon release—the film eventually gained popularity through home viewing. In 2011, it was transformed into a successful Broadway musical.
The historic newsboys’ strike of 1899, led by young individuals, aimed at altering the compensation method used by New York-based publishers Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst for the child vendors selling their papers. For multiple days, these youthful demonstrators halted traffic across the Brooklyn Bridge, disrupted newspaper delivery operations, and diminished revenue. This protest continued for about two weeks before culminating in victory as higher wages were secured for the newsboys. As part of the agreement, newspapers committed to repurchasing leftover editions—costs that formerly fell solely upon the newsboys themselves.
On Monday, lights, microphones, and audio equipment were used in rehearsals for the first time, as mentioned by Director Missy Day, who additionally instructs drama and choir at the institution.
Day mentioned that the rehearsals are progressing smoothly, “We’re nearly at our destination,” she stated.
The production process for this year’s show is more intricate compared to last year’s “Peter Pan Jr.” The current play, Newsies, features a bigger ensemble and a more complex stage design, complete with numerous movable components.
“There are so many scene changes and props, so the actors have been rehearsing how to stay in character while climbing on scaffolding and throwing around newspapers,” Day said.
Day also praised the cast and their families for the high level of effort they have put into the production.
They excel as leaders and have shown remarkable responsibility,” she stated. “There’s plenty of dancing involved, and the children are performing admirably—even though most haven’t had professional dance instruction. Despite this, the students have truly risen to the occasion, engaging in independent practice sessions and supporting each other.
Tracking down props for a historical drama set in 1899 has been quite difficult. However, Jordan Waldron, who is connected to one of the actors through their parents, provided an original early-1900s camera to the production team. Additionally, Carrie Gibbs, also linked via parental ties to someone involved with the play, discovered a classic candlestick phone. Furthermore, Jonathan Berke, a close associate of the Day family, refurbished an authentic Underwood typewriter specifically for this performance.
We are incredibly thankful for the support of parents and friends since the show wouldn’t be possible without their assistance,” Day stated. Securing an original printing press turned out to be unfeasible, thus another cast member’s parent, Justin Gibbs, built one entirely from scratch instead. Numerous individuals have also contributed to the production.
Day expressed her enthusiasm for showcasing the performance to viewers.
It’s a delightful program, and the ensemble has put in considerable effort,” she commented. “I think our Maker bestows upon us His ingenuity, hence showcasing this through the performing arts at Woodland Christian School is an incredible method to mirror the splendor of the divine Being we adore.