By LeAnna Hamblin
On Pitch Performing Arts in Layton, Utah has seized the chance to wow audiences at Layton Ed Kenley Amphitheater with their production of Newsies. Based on the book by Harvey Fierstein, with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Jack Feldman, this enormously popular stage production premiered on Broadway in 2012 and ran for more than 1,000 shows before touring. It’s based on the true story of the 1899 newsboys strike in New York City. The message of perseverance and friendship shines through in OPPA’s production where more than 80 cast members unite to tell this empowering story.
Director, and OPPA’s Executive Director, Brandon Stauffer, has poured his heart into this production. The cast and crew have picked up on his enthusiasm for the message this show offers through performing arts and the importance of theatre education.
As the show opens on Jack Kelly (Logan Kelley) and his best friend, Crutchie (Quinn Thurman), they lament about the possibility of better lives out West. Thurman makes the audience fall in love with Crutchie’s loyal and lovable charm. It is apparent that both Thurman and Kelley have taken these roles on with purpose and determination. Thurman and Kelley’s soulful harmonies in the opening number, “Santa Fe” are touching. But Kelley’s breakout is during his heartfelt solos rendition of “Santa Fe” after the newsboys have seemingly fallen to the higher and richer power of Joseph Pulitzer (John Lee Roring).
Roring has a commanding stage presence needed for this somewhat sinister role. He is compelling in both stature and voice. The connection to his castmates is apparent as he appears to be an experienced leader among the cast.
Bridger Butler, who plays the fresh-faced and determined Davey Jacobs, embodies the courage it takes to lead a group of underprivileged youth in a fight against the titan, Pulitzer. Butler gives an ambitious performance and is a great big brother to Les Jacobs, played by Micah Thornton and Carson Ward. Ward is a bundle of energy and spunk as he is absorbed into the newsie lifestyle. His portrayal is touching and entertaining as he brings spunk and wit to the stage.
Hailey Randall as Pulitzer’s feisty daughter, Katherine, is beautifully talented. Randall’s performance is outstanding, and in no way does her small stature impede her strong performance. Randall attacks this role with all the energy and force needed to take down a small empire. Her storytelling in the quick-tongued “Watch What Happens” brings the audience to the edges of their seats as she makes them believe that lives can be changed through her words. Her connection to Kelley seems authentic as Katherine begins to fall for the charming antics of Jack.
Music Director, Erin Roring, does an incredible job with this talented cast, especially Jack’s and Katherine’s touching duet “Something to Believe In.”
One of my favorite characters in this production is Medda Larkin played by Quesley Bunch who keeps things real and safe for Jack and the other Newsies. Bunch personifies this iconic role. Despite some technical difficulties with her microphone, Bunch tells Medda’s story through her movement and playful demeanor onstage.
The choreography in this production is nothing short of what one might expect from Newsies. Choreographers Rachel Helwig and Dede Williams make good use of space for this large cast on a smaller stage, utilizing levels for visual interest and side stages for creative entrances and exits. The ensemble is well rehearsed, and the energy is high, especially in the numbers “Carrying the Banner” and “Seize the Day.” One of my all-time favorite numbers in this musical is “King of New York,” and the cast does an impressive job, even though I did miss the sound of taps on the floor, which is customary for this dance routine.
The multifunctional set, designed by Stauffer, is perfect for this outdoor stage, where set changes can be challenging. Stage manager, Brayden Weidman’s job is critical in moving the show along with many scene changes in short periods of time. His quick work makes the continuity of the story seamless and well-paced. As a bonus, the stage crew is dressed in period costumes so as not to disturb the believability of the show. Kudos to Costume Designer, Amanda Larsen, who has created a beautiful palette of period pieces to fit each scene and character, from the rag-tag gangs of newsies, to the glitz and glamour of Medda Larkin and her beautiful dancing girls.
Newsies performed at Ed Kenley Amphitheater is likely to be a family-friendly favorite among young and old audiences alike. The Amphitheater is a beautiful venue for this heartwarming show. I would advise bringing lawn chairs if you are planning to sit on the lawn or seat cushions for the stadium seats. The community support for OPPA, Layton’s only live theatre, is touching to see as people come together to enjoy a show with such a powerful message of perseverance and loyalty. If you’re looking to leave behind the burdens of everyday life, “where better to escape trouble than the theater!”
On Pitch Performing Arts presents Newsies, Music by Alan Menken, Lyrics by Jack Feldman, Book by Harvey Fierstein.
On Pitch Performing Arts, 587 N Main Street, Layton, UT 84041
August 14-20, 2019 8:00 PM, Wednesday-Saturday, Monday-Tuesday
Tickets: $12-$15
Contact: 385-209-1557
On Pitch Performing Arts Facebook Page
Layton Ed Kenley Amphitheater: 445 N Wasatch Drive, Layton, UT 84041
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